Dare Babalola
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, has initiated a fresh round of political consultations with influential stakeholders, signaling his interest to contest the 2027 governorship seat in the state.
Hamzat disclosed on Monday via his social media platforms that he had met with members of the powerful Governance Advisory Council (GAC), a body widely regarded as a key decision-making organ within the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Today, I began consultations with respected members of the Governance Advisory Council. We had honest, thoughtful conversations about the future of Lagos and the kind of leadership it requires,” Hamzat wrote.
He emphasised the importance of collective engagement and experience in shaping the state’s future, adding that the discussions were part of a broader effort to strengthen governance in Lagos.
“I value the experience and guidance shared. This is about listening, learning and working with others to build a stronger Lagos,” he stated.
Hamzat’s consultations come amid increasing political conversations around who will succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu when his tenure ends in 2027.
Within political circles, the deputy governor is widely reported to be a leading contender and, in some quarters, the preferred choice to take over from his principal. His close working relationship with Sanwo-Olu and longstanding ties within the Lagos APC structure have further fueled such speculations.
However, the emerging succession narrative is not without competition. Former governor Akinwunmi Ambode is also believed to be weighing a potential political comeback, setting the stage for what could become a high-stakes contest within the ruling party.
Despite the growing permutations, the Lagos State chapter of the APC has moved to downplay claims that any aspirant has been officially endorsed.
Party leaders have repeatedly maintained that there is no “anointed candidate” for the forthcoming governorship election, stressing that the process will remain open and competitive in line with democratic principles.
