Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has publicly thrown his weight behind his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, as the preferred candidate to succeed him in the 2027 governorship race.
The endorsement followed a closed-door meeting at Lagos House in Marina, where Hamzat formally declared his ambition before members of the State Executive Council and key party stakeholders. Speaking after the session, Sanwo-Olu said the decision to back his deputy was unanimous among those present.
According to the governor, Hamzat possesses the competence and experience required to lead Lagos, citing their years of collaboration in government. He described the deputy governor as a dependable partner who has demonstrated integrity, loyalty, and commitment throughout their time in office.
Sanwo-Olu also acknowledged the influence of President Bola Tinubu in shaping their political trajectory, noting that the current development reflects a long-standing vision within the political structure.
Reiterating his confidence, the governor said Hamzat is well-prepared to take over leadership, adding that consultations with party leaders and stakeholders informed the endorsement.
In the lead-up to this development, Hamzat has reportedly secured the backing of several prominent figures, including Mudashiru Obasa, Femi Gbajabiamila, Tokunbo Abiru, and Wale Edun.
Meanwhile, Obasa, who had previously shown interest in the governorship race, is now said to be shifting focus to the House of Representatives seat for Agege Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 elections. His earlier consultations across the state, including efforts to revive the Mandate Group political structure, have reportedly been scaled back following internal party alignments.
Sources indicate that the emergence of Hamzat as the preferred candidate followed high-level consultations involving President Tinubu and the Governance Advisory Council, effectively consolidating support within the party ahead of the election cycle.
