The push by Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, to clinch the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket for 2027 gathered significant momentum on Thursday, following endorsements from key party figures.
Among those backing his ambition are the Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mudasiru Obasa, and former senator Ganiyu Olarenwaju Solomon, alongside other influential party stakeholders.
The endorsements came during a series of high-level consultations led by Hamzat, who visited the APC state secretariat in Ogba and later held private meetings with party leaders at their residences.
Addressing party executives, Hamzat underscored Lagos’ strategic importance to Nigeria’s stability and economic future, warning that any setback in the state could have far-reaching national consequences. He stressed the need for unity and electoral strength ahead of future contests.
He also referenced the 2023 elections, urging party members to avoid a repeat of past challenges and to secure decisive victories for both the APC and President Bola Tinubu in upcoming polls. According to him, opposition efforts to discredit the current administration stem from political weakness rather than performance gaps.
In response, Ojelabi expressed strong confidence in Hamzat’s leadership qualities, citing his competence and humility as key strengths that make him a worthy contender.
At a separate meeting, Obasa hinted at internal consensus within the party, suggesting that Hamzat’s candidacy already enjoys broad support among decision-makers. He pledged full backing to ensure electoral success.
Echoing similar sentiments, Solomon called on grassroots supporters, particularly in Mushin, to demonstrate loyalty to the APC by turning out en masse during elections.
The wave of endorsements signals early consolidation within the Lagos APC, positioning Hamzat as a formidable frontrunner in the race for the party’s governorship ticket.
