President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally endorsed Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship flagbearer for the 2027 election.
The endorsement was sealed on Wednesday during a high-level meeting between the President and members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Hamzat revealed that the delegation, led by GAC Chairman Prince Tajudeen Olusi, had formally presented him to the President, who gave his approval to both his candidacy and the council’s decision.
Describing the endorsement as a significant milestone, Hamzat praised the experience and leadership of the GAC members, noting their long-standing role in shaping Lagos politics.
“These are fathers and leaders who have witnessed decades of political evolution. Their guidance means a great deal to me. I am honoured that they brought me before Mr President, who has now endorsed both me and their decision,” he said.
Addressing concerns about his readiness for the governorship race, Hamzat acknowledged the magnitude of the responsibility but expressed confidence in his experience as deputy governor under Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
“The task ahead is enormous, and no one can claim to be fully prepared. However, experience counts. Having served in this administration, I understand how the system works. I know the environment, and that gives me a strong foundation,” he stated.
He used a metaphor to illustrate his preparedness, explaining that leadership requires not just skill but familiarity with the system. “If you want to cook for people, you must know the kitchen. With God’s grace and the support of party leaders, I have no fear,” he added.
Hamzat’s endorsement follows a wave of political developments within Lagos APC. Earlier in the week, Governor Sanwo-Olu publicly declared him as his preferred successor, symbolically raising his hand alongside Olusi at Lagos House.
Further reinforcing the party’s backing, the 34-member GAC resolved to purchase Hamzat’s ₦50 million nomination form, signaling unified support for his candidacy.
Reacting to criticisms from other aspirants, including APC chieftain Samuel Ajose, Olusi dismissed objections to the consensus arrangement. He emphasized that internal consultations and collective decision-making are longstanding features of the party’s political structure.
“In a democratic setting, individuals are free to express differing opinions. However, consensus-building remains a core part of our process. We have carefully deliberated and reached a decision we believe serves the party’s best interest,” Olusi said.
The delegation to the Presidential Villa included Governor Sanwo-Olu and other prominent APC stakeholders in Lagos, underscoring the weight of support behind Hamzat’s candidacy.
Despite the endorsement, party leaders reiterated that the APC would still conduct governorship primaries in accordance with its guidelines. This, they said, is to ensure fairness and provide all aspirants an opportunity to participate.
The party has scheduled its governorship primaries for May 21, 2026, while the deadline for submission of nomination forms is set for May 4, maintaining the formal electoral process despite the consensus backing.
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