Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election, setting the stage for a major political transition in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Hamzat made his intention known on Monday during a closed-door meeting held at Lagos House, Marina. The meeting was attended by members of the State Executive Council, key party leaders, and influential members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC).
Shortly after the declaration, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, publicly endorsed his deputy as his preferred successor, describing him as capable and well-prepared to lead the state.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the endorsement followed a consensus among stakeholders present at the meeting. He praised Hamzat’s leadership qualities, citing his experience, loyalty, and contributions to governance over the past seven years.
“We received Mr Deputy… to inform us of his intention to contest,” the governor said, adding that Hamzat is “fit and well-prepared” for the role.
The meeting reportedly had in attendance prominent political figures, including members of the GAC, underscoring the weight of party support behind Hamzat’s aspiration.
Hamzat, who has served as deputy governor since 2019, is widely seen as a key figure in the current administration and a central player in Lagos politics. His declaration signals the early start of political alignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political analysts note that the endorsement by Sanwo-Olu could significantly shape the dynamics of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in the state, given the influence of party leadership and established political structures.
With the governorship race gradually taking shape, attention is now expected to shift to other aspirants and the evolving political landscape in Lagos State ahead of 2027.