A governorship aspirant in Lagos State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Samuel Ajose, has announced his withdrawal from the 2027 governorship race in favor of the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat after discussions with the party leadership.
Ajose, widely recognized as SMA Gold, made this announcement during his appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, stating that he stepped aside in accordance with the wishes of APC leaders prior to the party’s primary election.
The politician from Badagry, who had previously maintained his intention to continue in the race, indicated that the APC leadership had clearly communicated that the party had opted for a different direction regarding the Lagos governorship contest.
He explained that his decision to withdraw was influenced by his respect for the party’s constitution, leadership, and internal processes.
“The race has been quite engaging and it reached an emotional conclusion yesterday for the phase of SMA concerning the 2027 election.
“It is essential to take time to re-plan and re-strategize, and when the party leadership indicates a preferred direction, one cannot act independently if one wishes to remain within the party,” he added.
Ajose characterized the decision as difficult yet essential for fostering peace and unity within the APC in anticipation of the 2027 general election.
“We all uphold the party’s constitution. The constitution is paramount, and if the party’s current stance is that this is the direction they wish to pursue, for the sake of peace and to enable us to promptly begin planning for the 2027 general election, I believe it is prudent to make that choice,” he added.
When questioned if his withdrawal stemmed from a belief that he would lose the primary election to Hamzat, Ajose clarified that he was never intimidated by any opponent but opted to honor the views of party elders.
He said, “What I can share is that all members of the party’s leadership convened with me, and when your elders are speaking, it is imperative to listen.
“The party expressed their desires, and if you intend to operate within the framework, principles, and constitution of the party, it is essential to heed their guidance to avoid potential issues,” he stated.
Ajose further disclosed that the conversations with party leaders primarily focused on the advancement of Badagry, noting that commitments were made that would be advantageous for the region.
“During our meeting, our discussions revolved entirely around Badagry, and for the first time, Badagry was able to participate in negotiations concerning Lagos State, resulting in some significant benefits for the area,” he remarked.
He expressed confidence that Hamzat would honor the commitments made during the discussions.
Hamzat is widely acknowledged as the favored candidate of the APC leadership in Lagos, having received the support of President Bola Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Lagos Governance Advisory Council, GAC.
Hamzat was elected as deputy governor alongside Sanwo-Olu in 2019, and both were re-elected in 2023 for a second term.
Prior to his role as deputy governor, the 61-year-old held the position of commissioner during the tenures of former Lagos governors Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola.