Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has publicly thrown his weight behind the 2027 governorship ambition of his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, describing him as the most suitable candidate for the role.
The endorsement came during a meeting with party stakeholders at the governor’s office in Alausa, Lagos, as seen in a video obtained on Monday.
Addressing attendees, Sanwo-Olu offered prayers for Hamzat, wishing him success and divine guidance as he looks ahead.
“Peace of mind, peace in your family among your children, wife, spouse and everybody. That which you require, God will provide it for you: renewed strength, God Almighty will make it available for you,” he said.
The governor also thanked party leaders for their continued support and reaffirmed his confidence in his deputy’s leadership abilities.
In a symbolic moment at the end of the meeting, Sanwo-Olu embraced Hamzat and lifted his hand before party members, drawing applause from those present.
The move comes amid growing political conversations around the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the 2027 Lagos governorship race, with Hamzat widely seen as a strong contender.
However, former governorship candidate Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has dismissed reports suggesting that the party has settled for any candidate.
The PrimeTimes reported that in a statement issued through his spokesperson, Gbenga Ogunleye, he maintained that no official decision has been reached by the party leadership, though he pledged to support any eventual consensus choice.
“We restate, in line with the official position of the Lagos State APC leadership as communicated by the State Chairman, that no aspirant has been anointed and that all aspirants will participate in a credible primary election,” the statement said.
While affirming his readiness to contest, Jandor noted that he would respect the party’s collective decision if a consensus arrangement is eventually adopted.
“This is a position anchored on his readiness to compete, and a willingness to submit to the collective will of the party,” the statement added.
He also said he remains actively involved in the race, strengthening grassroots structures and consulting widely with party members across Lagos.
Adediran cautioned party faithful against mistaking individual endorsements or campaign activities for the official stance of the party leadership.
“Jandor urges party members not to mistake a campaign by an individual or a political group for their choice aspirant as the party position or that of our Leader. When the party and our Leader speak, I am sure no one will do otherwise,” the statement read.