I’ll serve Lagosians with integrity – Hamzat; no consensus candidate yet — Jandor
Lagos Deputy Governor Pledges Commitment Ahead of 2027 Elections
By Dapo Akinrefon & Olasunkanmi Akoni, Lagos
Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat has expressed his intention to serve the state with “integrity, focus and a clear sense of purpose” if elected governor in the upcoming 2027 elections.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Hamzat reaffirmed his dedication following an endorsement from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other party leaders during a meeting on Thursday. “I remain committed to building on the progress we’ve made together,” he stated.
However, Gbenga ‘Jandor’ Ogunleye, another aspirant for the party’s nomination, noted that no formal decision has been made regarding the party’s candidate.
In related developments, Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly Mudashiru Obasa is reportedly pivoting his political ambitions toward a bid for the House of Representatives for the Agege Federal Constituency, abandoning his initial aspirations for the governorship.
This shift follows Sanwo-Olu and the State Executive Council’s endorsement of Hamzat as the consensus candidate for the governorship. Obasa, who previously sought to succeed Sanwo-Olu, has been engaging in political consultations through the revival of the Mandate Group, a political network linked to President Bola Tinubu.
Sources within the All Progressives Congress (APC) indicated that Obasa’s change in direction occurred after President Tinubu, in consultation with the Governance Advisory Council, favored Hamzat for the governor’s position.
Following this development, Obasa has turned his focus to contesting the Lagos West Senatorial District, planning to challenge incumbent Senator Idiat Adebule. Internal party discussions suggest growing support for Obasa’s candidacy as the APC seeks to consolidate its position in the district.
Despite this, Adebule has garnered support from the APC’s national leadership and its women’s wing, which advocates for her reelection due to her unique status as the only female senator from the South-West geopolitical zone.
In light of these dynamics, President Tinubu has recommended that Obasa pursue a House of Representatives seat instead, specifically for the Agege constituency currently held by Dr. Wale Ahmed. Reports indicate that Obasa has begun mobilizing grassroots support within the region.
The unfolding situation highlights the shifting landscape of Lagos APC politics as the 2027 elections approach, with party unity and leadership decisions playing crucial roles in shaping candidates’ ambitions.
The endorsement of Hamzat was solidified during a high-level meeting at Lagos House, Marina, which included key political figures and members of the Governance Advisory Council such as Senators Musiliu Obanikoro and Ganiyu Solomon. Sanwo-Olu praised Hamzat’s experience and readiness for the governorship, stating, “He understands the workings of government and has demonstrated integrity, loyalty, and commitment at the highest level.”
Responding to the endorsement on social media, Hamzat expressed gratitude to Sanwo-Olu for his trust and reiterated his commitment to the people of Lagos.
Meanwhile, Jandor dismissed claims of a finalized candidate, asserting that no official decision has been made. He conveyed willingness to align with the party’s final decision if a consensus emerges.
For more updates, visit Vanguard News.
