By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Fresh indications have emerged that the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) may be coalescing around the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, as its preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election, following an alleged endorsement by the influential Governance Advisory Council (GAC).
Multiple party insiders who spoke to The Merit Newspaper on condition of anonymity on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, disclosed that the move is believed to have the tacit backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a development that is already reshaping permutations within the ruling party in the state.
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“As it stands, Hamzat is the anointed candidate of the GAC, and there is a strong signal that the President is comfortable with the arrangement,” one highly placed party source revealed. “This has naturally triggered realignments among other aspirants, many of whom are now reconsidering their ambitions.”
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According to the source, several prominent figures who had initially shown interest in the governorship ticket have begun subtle campaigns for the deputy governorship slot, viewing it as a more attainable path within the emerging political configuration. “Some of them have quietly shifted focus. They are lobbying key stakeholders for the deputy position, knowing fully well how decisive the GAC’s position can be,” the source added.
However, not all aspirants appear ready to step down. Another insider noted that a faction within the party remains defiant, with some hopefuls proceeding to purchase nomination forms ahead of the APC primaries. “There are still those who believe the race is open. They are going ahead with consultations and form purchases, perhaps hoping for a last-minute change or broader consensus,” the source said.
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The Governance Advisory Council, widely regarded as the apex decision-making body of the Lagos APC, has historically played a pivotal role in determining candidates for key political offices in the state. Its endorsement often signals the direction of the party, given its composition of influential leaders and longstanding political stakeholders.
Dr. Hamzat, who has served as Deputy Governor since 2019 under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is seen by many within the party as a technocrat with administrative experience and deep roots in Lagos politics. While no official statement has been issued by the APC or the Presidency confirming the endorsement, the unfolding developments suggest that the contest for Lagos State’s top seat may already be tilting in a decisive direction.
