2027 Lagos APC GAC Endorses Hamzat as Consensus Candidate

2027 Lagos APC GAC Endorses Hamzat as Consensus Candidate

Obafemi Hamzat’s 2027 governorship ambition in Lagos State has received a significant endorsement from the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the highest advisory body of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, marking a major step in his political journey. The announcement came just one day after Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu publicly declared Hamzat as his preferred successor, reinforcing the deputy governor’s position as the party’s consensus candidate. The GAC’s unanimous decision was made during a meeting held at Lagos House, Marina, and was confirmed through a statement posted on X by Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media.

The statement emphasized that the GAC not only endorsed Dr. Obafemi Hamzat but also took the symbolic step of paying for his governorship nomination form, signaling strong institutional support within the APC. Tajudeen Olusi, the leader of the GAC, made the announcement during the meeting, underscoring the council’s unity and commitment to the party’s internal processes. This endorsement is seen as a critical validation of Hamzat’s candidacy, especially as the 2027 gubernatorial election approaches and party factions begin to align behind preferred candidates.

Hamzat, who has served as Deputy Governor since 2019, has been a key figure in Lagos State’s administration, playing a central role in policy implementation and public projects. His endorsement by the GAC, which comprises influential APC leaders and stakeholders, strengthens his position within the party and reduces the likelihood of a contested primary. The move also reflects Governor Sanwo-Olu’s influence in shaping the party’s future leadership, as his public backing of Hamzat has now been mirrored by the party’s top advisory group.

The APC’s decision to back Hamzat as a consensus candidate could help unify the party ahead of the 2027 elections, minimizing internal conflicts and presenting a united front. With the GAC’s support and the governor’s endorsement, Hamzat’s campaign is expected to gain momentum, drawing attention from both party members and the general public. This development also sets the stage for a potential smooth transition of power in Lagos, one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states.

As the 2027 election draws nearer, Hamzat’s candidacy is likely to attract further scrutiny, support, and possibly opposition from other aspirants. However, with the backing of the state’s top APC advisory body and the sitting governor, his path to the governorship appears increasingly clear. The endorsement signals a strategic move by the APC to consolidate its leadership and maintain political stability in Lagos State.