Lagos State governorship aspirant for the 2027 election, Samuel Ajose, has stepped down for the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that Ajose announced his decision on Tuesday, stating it was a tough decision as he struggled with it.
While pledging his support for Hamzat’s governorship ambition, Ajose said the withdrawal was taken in the interest of party unity and political stability within the Lagos APC.
He emphasised that the decision followed extensive reflection on what would best serve the interests of party members, stakeholders and the APC in Lagos State.
He said, “I know it’s a very tough decision. I didn’t sleep overnight too. I struggled with it. But when I woke up this morning I had my peace.
“So that’s why I said everything that everyone we will benefit, give it to the governors we’re still going to benefit. Because we have made sure we took care of the needs of everybody and I think it’s the best for you.
“In the interest of the party, I Governor Samuel Ajose have decided I will let go, I will support Governor Hazmat we’re going to be part of the campaign we’re going to take an important position in his campaign.”
His withdrawal comes weeks after former Lagos governorship candidate, Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, also stepped down from the race and endorsed Hamzat.
Jandor had explained that his decision followed the endorsement of Hamzat by President Bola Tinubu and influential APC leaders in Lagos State.