Lagos 2027: Hamzat Cleared for Primary as APC Hunts for Running Mate

LAGOS – The political landscape in Lagos State has shifted into high gear as the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, successfully cleared the All Progressives Congress (APC) screening process in Abuja, solidifying his position as the leading contender for the 2027 governorship race.

​While Hamzat’s individual path appears increasingly clear, the ruling party is grappling with internal friction over the selection of a suitable running mate and mounting concerns regarding opposition “spoilers” in key constituencies.

​The Abuja Clearance

​Appearing before the APC Governorship Screening Committee in the nation’s capital, Dr. Hamzat received a “clean bill of health” to participate in the upcoming primary elections. Speaking after the exercise, Hamzat emphasized that the process was a rigorous verification of his credentials and public service record.

​”The essence of the screening is to ensure that everything submitted is accurate and verifiable,” he stated. “We submitted all required documents, and the committee asked questions based on the information provided. It is basically to confirm that what you wrote is truly reflective of your experience and service.”

​Labor Unions Throw Weight Behind Hamzat

​Back home in Lagos, the Deputy Governor’s ambition received a massive boost during the 2026 World Labour Day celebrations at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. Leadership from both the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) publicly endorsed Hamzat.

​Funmi Sessi, the Chairperson of the NLC Lagos Council, described Hamzat as “loyal, competent, tested, and trusted,” noting that his leadership would ensure the continuity of the developmental strides established by the Sanwo-Olu administration.

​Acknowledging the cheers of the crowd, Hamzat promised to maintain the state’s “audacious” growth trajectory. “I know the room. I know where the kitchen is,” he told the workers, citing his years of experience working alongside Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

ADVERTISEMENT

​The Running Mate Dilemma

​Despite the momentum, the APC leadership finds itself at a crossroads regarding the deputy governorship slot. Internal sources indicate that the party’s initial preference, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin—the current Secretary to the State Government (SSG)—has faced stiff resistance from stakeholders in the Badagry division.

​The rejection has forced party elders back to the drawing board to find a candidate who balances the ticket geographically and politically without alienating key voting blocs.

​The ‘Aregbesola Factor’ in Oshodi-Isolo

​Adding to the complexity of the 2027 preparations, an APC-aligned group in the Oshodi-Isolo Constituency has raised an alarm over alleged interference by former Governor and estranged party chieftain, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

​The group claims Aregbesola is attempting to sponsor a candidate for the House of Representatives seat against the “popular wish” of local party members. This friction highlights the lingering internal rivalries the APC must navigate as it embarks on a massive mobilization drive to secure the state.

​Consensus Building

​Hamzat’s bid is fortified by a rare alignment of political heavyweights. He has already secured the backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the powerful Governance Advisory Council (GAC), and Governor Sanwo-Olu. Notably, former rival Dr. Olajide Adediran (Jandor) has also withdrawn from the race to support Hamzat, signaling a unified front within the party’s core as the primary election approaches.