Isaac Samuel
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday endorsed his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred successor for the 2027 governorship election.
The announcement followed a closed-door meeting at Lagos House, Marina, attended by key stakeholders, including members of the Governor’s Advisory Council such as former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, and Ganiyu Solomon.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Sanwo-Olu said the endorsement reflected a consensus among party leaders present, describing Hamzat as capable and ready to lead the state.
“We received the Deputy Governor, who came with a strong delegation of leaders to formally inform us of his intention to contest. It was a unanimous decision that he is fit and well-prepared for the job,” the governor said.
He noted that Hamzat’s experience and deep understanding of governance positioned him as a natural successor.
“He is a man who knows where all the rooms in the house are,” Sanwo-Olu added.
The governor also highlighted their working relationship over the past seven years, praising Hamzat’s integrity, loyalty and commitment to service.
“He has worked with me at the highest level of integrity, loyalty, commitment and support. I feel honoured that he chose to formally inform me of his ambition,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the role of President Bola Tinubu in shaping their political journey, crediting him for fostering the partnership that has defined the current administration.
“We thank our leader, Mr President, who saw the vision, and what we are seeing today is a manifestation of that long-term plan,” he said.
Describing Hamzat as fully prepared for the task ahead, the governor maintained that his deputy possesses the competence required to govern Lagos effectively.
“This is a deputy governor who has been ready for the job from day one. He has been built for this role, and we believe he deserves the opportunity to lead the state,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu added that the endorsement emerged from extensive consultations, noting that the meeting served as a platform for party leaders and government officials to align on the state’s political direction ahead of 2027.
“It was a warm, family meeting, and in the end, there was a unanimous agreement that he is fit, ready and prepared for the responsibility,” he said.
