Babajide Sanwo-Olu has endorsed his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 governorship election, signaling an early consolidation of support within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State.
The endorsement reportedly took place during a closed-door meeting at Lagos House on Monday, attended by key party leaders and political advisers. Sources familiar with the meeting said the governor used the opportunity to commend Hamzat’s performance, describing him as a loyal partner who has demonstrated competence throughout their years in office.
Sanwo-Olu, who has worked closely with Hamzat since assuming office in 2019, was quoted as saying the deputy governor is “worth a governor from day one,” highlighting his experience and preparedness to take on the state’s top job.
Hamzat, in response, expressed gratitude for the endorsement, describing it as a vote of confidence in his leadership capacity. He also pledged to build on the administration’s achievements if given the opportunity, emphasizing continuity in governance and development.
The endorsement is seen by political observers as a significant boost to Hamzat’s potential candidacy, particularly as jockeying for position begins within the APC ahead of the party primaries. While the governor’s backing carries considerable weight, analysts note that the party’s internal selection process remains competitive, with other aspirants expected to emerge.
Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, is widely regarded as one of the most politically strategic states in the country, making the governorship race highly consequential. As such, endorsements and alliances within the APC often play a critical role in shaping the outcome of primaries.
Some party insiders suggest that Sanwo-Olu’s move is aimed at maintaining continuity and stability within the state’s political structure, while also ensuring that ongoing projects and policies are sustained beyond his tenure.
However, others caution that early endorsements can sometimes trigger internal resistance, especially among party members who may feel sidelined. “The primaries will ultimately determine the candidate,” one analyst noted, adding that party consensus is key to avoiding post-primary disputes.
The development comes as political activities across Nigeria gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with stakeholders positioning themselves for key contests at both state and national levels.
For now, Hamzat’s endorsement places him in a strong early position, but the path to securing the APC ticket—and ultimately the governorship—will depend on party dynamics, grassroots support, and the outcome of internal negotiations.
As the race begins to take shape, attention will remain on how the APC manages its internal process in Lagos, a state where political succession often sets the tone for broader national trends.
