Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday formally endorsed his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 governorship election, signalling an early political alignment within the state’s ruling structure.
The endorsement followed a closed-door meeting held at Lagos House, Marina, where Hamzat officially declared his intention to contest the state’s top office before members of the State Executive Council and influential party stakeholders.
Among those present were members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), including former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, and prominent political figure Ganiyu Solomon, alongside other key leaders.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Sanwo-Olu described the endorsement as a consensus decision reached by stakeholders, affirming confidence in Hamzat’s capacity to govern the state effectively.
According to the governor, the deputy governor’s formal declaration was supported by a strong delegation of party leaders, with broad agreement that he possesses the experience and competence required for leadership.
Sanwo-Olu emphasised Hamzat’s track record, citing his integrity, loyalty, and commitment over the past seven years of working together at the highest level of governance in Lagos State.
He further noted that Hamzat’s deep understanding of the state’s administrative structure and policy direction positions him as a natural successor, adding that the deputy governor has demonstrated readiness for the responsibilities of the office.
The governor also acknowledged the role of President Bola Tinubu, crediting him for fostering the political relationship that has shaped both his administration and Hamzat’s emergence as a leading contender.
Describing the meeting as a consultative engagement among party leaders and government officials, Sanwo-Olu maintained that the endorsement reflected a unified position within the political establishment in Lagos.
The development is widely seen as an early consolidation of support within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, as political activities gradually gather pace ahead of the 2027 general elections.
