By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has withdrawn from the race for the Lagos State governorship seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Jandor announced his decision on Thursday, bringing an unexpected end to his renewed political ambition after recently expressing interest in contesting the 2027 governorship election.
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In a statement, the politician said his withdrawal was in the interest of party unity and internal harmony within the APC. He noted that the decision followed consultations and reflection on the broader direction of the party in Lagos State.
He explained that while he remains committed to the progress of the party, he believes supporting collective decisions would help strengthen cohesion ahead of the next general elections.
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The Merit Newspaper reports that Jandor, who was the PDP governorship candidate in the 2023 election before returning to the APC, had only recently re-entered the race by obtaining nomination forms, signalling his intention to participate in the party’s primaries.
However, political developments within the APC in Lagos have increasingly pointed toward a consensus arrangement, with party stakeholders reportedly backing the state’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, as a leading contender.
His withdrawal is expected to further shape the political calculations within the ruling party as it prepares for the 2027 governorship election, where internal negotiations continue to play a key role in candidate selection.
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Party leaders are yet to issue an official response to Jandor’s decision, but observers say the move may reduce tension within the Lagos APC as the race gradually narrows around a preferred consensus candidate.
