Samuel Ajose, a Lagos State governorship aspirant for the 2027 election, has officially withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship race ahead of the party’s primary election and publicly declared his support for Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat. The announcement, made on Tuesday, marks a significant development in the APC’s internal race for the Lagos State governorship, as Ajose cited party unity and political stability as key reasons for his decision. He emphasized that after deep reflection, he chose to step aside in the interest of broader party cohesion and the collective good of APC members and stakeholders in Lagos.
Ajose described the decision as difficult, admitting he struggled with it and didn’t sleep well the night before. “I know it’s a very tough decision. I didn’t sleep overnight too. I struggled with it. But when I woke up this morning I had my peace,” he said. He explained that his choice was driven by a desire to ensure that all party members, regardless of faction or preference, would benefit from a united front. “So that’s why I said everything that everyone we will benefit, give it to the govers we’re till going to benefit. Because we have made sure we took care of the needs of everybody and I think it’s the best for you,” he added, underscoring his commitment to collective progress over personal ambition.
In a formal statement, Ajose confirmed his withdrawal and pledged active participation in Hamzat’s campaign. “In the interest of the party, I Governor Samuel Ajose have decided I will let go, I will support Governor Hazmat we’re going to be part of the campaign we’re going to take an important position in his campaign,” he declared. His move follows a similar step taken weeks earlier by former Lagos governorship candidate Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, who also stepped down and endorsed Hamzat. Jandor had cited President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement of Hamzat, along with backing from key APC leaders in Lagos, as the primary reasons for his decision.
Ajose’s withdrawal strengthens Hamzat’s position within the APC as the party prepares for its primary election. With two major aspirants now endorsing him, Hamzat is emerging as the clear frontrunner, consolidating support from influential figures across the party’s spectrum. The developments signal a shift toward unity within the APC in Lagos, as candidates prioritize party harmony over individual ambitions. This growing consensus may also influence the broader political landscape in the state ahead of the 2027 elections, as the party seeks to present a united front to voters. As the primary approaches, Hamzat’s campaign is likely to gain momentum, backed by a coalition of former rivals and key party stakeholders.
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