Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has endorsed his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred candidate for the state’s 2027 governorship election.
The endorsement was announced on Monday after a closed-door meeting held at the Lagos House in Marina, where Hamzat formally presented his intention to run for the top office before members of the State Executive Council and key party stakeholders.
Prominent figures at the meeting included members of the Governor’s Advisory Council, among them former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, and party leader Ganiyu Solomon.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Sanwo-Olu described the decision as a collective agreement among party leaders and stakeholders present.
“We received the deputy governor, who came with a strong delegation to formally declare his intention to contest for the governorship,” he said. “After deliberations, it was a unanimous position that he is capable and well-prepared for the responsibility.”
The governor praised Hamzat’s track record, highlighting his years of collaboration and contributions to governance in the state.
“He has worked closely with me with integrity, loyalty, and commitment.
These are qualities that stand him out,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “I consider it an honour that he chose to inform me and seek our support.”
Sanwo-Olu also acknowledged the influence of Bola Tinubu, noting that the President played a key role in shaping the leadership trajectory of both himself and his deputy.
“We appreciate our leader and President, who laid the foundation for what we are witnessing today,” he added.
Describing Hamzat as ready to lead from day one, the governor said, “This is someone who understands the system and has been prepared for this role over time. We believe he deserves the opportunity to govern Lagos State.”
He further explained that the endorsement followed consultations with party leaders and government officials, describing the process as inclusive and consensus-driven.
The move signals early political alignment within the ruling All Progressives Congress in Lagos State, as preparations gradually begin ahead of the 2027 general elections.
