Sanwo-Olu supports deputy Hamzat as the preferred successor

The political landscape of Lagos State changed drastically on Monday when Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially endorsed his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, to replace him in the 2027 gubernatorial election.

This high-risk support was finalized in a closed strategy session at Lagos House, Marina. The meeting set the stage for Hamzat to officially declare his gubernatorial ambitions before an audience consisting of the influential State Executive Council and Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), including veterans such as former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, and Ganiyu Solomon.

Following the consultation, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the support as a collective pact among top political leaders in the state. He framed Hamzat not just as a candidate, but as a seasoned administrator who was familiar with state mechanisms.

“We just received Mr. Deputy, who came with a very strong delegation of our leaders in the state to inform us of his intention to compete for the governor’s seat of the state,” the governor said.

While praising his deputy’s preparedness, Sanwo-Olu said, “We are all unanimous in saying that Mr Deputy Governor is a fit and ready person for this job. He is a person who knows where all the rooms in the house are.”

The governor spoke highly of the partnership that has existed between the two since 2019, citing the rare political allegiance that underlies their governance.

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“He is a person who has worked with me at the highest level of integrity, loyalty, commitment, support, and therefore I personally feel honored and privileged that he has given me the honor to tell me,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu also took a moment to thank President Bola Tinubu, praising the President’s foresight in pairing the two leaders several years ago. “We thank our father, our leader, Mr. President, who saw that vision… that long term is what has been realized here today,” he added.

Describing the support as a natural evolution in leadership, the governor dispelled any doubts about Hamzat’s capacity to take control. He described the atmosphere of the announcement as a “warm family meeting” that culminated in a strong consensus.

“This is a deputy governor who deserves to be governor from day one, this is a man who was created for this job, and we believe he deserves to be given the opportunity to go and run this state,” Sanwo-Olu stressed.

Concluding his speech, he reiterated the strength of his choice: “This was a very warm family meeting, and in the end, it was decided unanimously that Mr Deputy Governor is fit, ready, ready for this job.”

This initial realignment within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) effectively serves as a starting gun for the 2027 cycle. By gaining public support from the Governor and visible backing from the GAC, Hamzat enters the race with significant institutional advantages as the party begins to consolidate its ranks.