By Adegbaju Temitope
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday endorsed his deputy, Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred successor, effectively clearing the path for him to clinch the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sanwo-Olu announced the endorsement after receiving Hamzat and a delegation of party leaders in Lagos, who formally informed him of the deputy governor’s intention to contest for the state’s top job.
Describing the meeting as a consultative engagement among party stakeholders, the governor said there was a unanimous agreement that Hamzat possesses the competence and experience required to lead the state.
“We just received Mr Deputy, who came with a strong delegation of leaders in the state to inform us of his intention to contest for the governorship position. It was unanimous that he is fit and well-prepared for the job,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He highlighted Hamzat’s track record and their working relationship over the past seven years, praising his integrity, loyalty, and commitment to governance.
“He is a man who has worked with me at the highest level of integrity, loyalty, commitment and support. I feel honoured that he chose to inform me of this decision,” the governor added.
Sanwo-Olu also acknowledged the role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in shaping the political trajectory of both himself and Hamzat, describing him as a visionary leader whose influence continues to guide the state’s leadership succession.
“We thank our father and leader, President Tinubu, who saw the vision. That long-term vision is what is being manifested today,” he said.
The governor further described Hamzat as a seasoned administrator who is fully prepared for the responsibilities of the office.
“This is a deputy governor who has been ready for the job from day one. He has been built for this role, and we believe he deserves the opportunity to lead the state,” he said.
The endorsement, coming ahead of the party’s internal processes for the 2027 elections, is expected to significantly shape the political landscape within the APC in Lagos State, where succession politics has already begun to gather momentum.
