Dare Babalola
Businessman and Lagos governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, has formally entered the race for the 2027 governorship election after obtaining his nomination and expression of interest forms.
Ajose announced the development in a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday, describing the move as a major step in his bid to lead Lagos State.
His declaration comes amid growing political interest in the state and is seen as a direct challenge to the endorsement of Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat by the Governance Advisory Council, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.
“I have officially picked up my nomination and expression of interest forms, taking a definitive step forward in my aspiration to serve as Governor of Lagos State on the platform of our great party, the APC,” Ajose wrote.
He said his ambition goes beyond contesting an election, stressing that it is tied to a desire for purposeful leadership and broader development across the state.
“This moment is bigger than a political process. It is a personal commitment to purposeful leadership, inclusive governance, and the kind of progress that every Lagosian can feel and point to,” he stated.
Ajose added that his vision for Lagos is centred on equitable development, economic opportunities and governance that touches every part of the state.
“My resolve is rooted in service, anchored in a clear vision, and driven by one conviction; that Lagos deserves development which reaches every community, creates real opportunities for its people, and leaves no one behind,” he said.
The APC chieftain further said he was beginning the journey with humility and faith in the people of Lagos.
“I begin this journey with humility, courage, and complete faith in God and in the good people of Lagos. Together, we are building something this state will be proud of,” he added.
Ajose’s entrance into the race is expected to intensify permutations within the Lagos APC, where succession politics has continued to gather momentum ahead of the next governorship election.
