Dr Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has officially withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship race in Lagos State ahead of the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made on Thursday at Liberty House, Adeniyi Jones Secretariat in Ikeja, where he addressed the media, party leaders, and supporters of the Lagos4Lagos Movement. His decision follows President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement of the incumbent Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, which Jandor said influenced his choice to step aside. The move underscores the growing influence of presidential endorsements in Nigeria’s political landscape, especially in high-stakes gubernatorial contests.
Jandor, who had recently purchased his nomination forms for the APC governorship ticket, explained that developments within hours of his application—including a meeting between President Tinubu and Dr Hamzat—prompted his decision. He emphasized that he had previously committed to aligning with the President’s political direction, a pledge he chose to honor. “Based on my earlier position that I will align with the direction of the President, I have decided to withdraw from the race,” Jandor stated during the press briefing. His withdrawal signals a strategic realignment within the APC in Lagos, as party members adjust to the President’s preferred candidate.
The endorsement of Dr Hamzat by President Tinubu has intensified speculation about the APC’s internal dynamics in Lagos State. As a key political figure and former Special Adviser to the President, Hamzat’s nomination is seen as a strategic move to consolidate support in the state. Jandor’s exit removes a prominent contender from the race, potentially reducing competition and streamlining party unity ahead of the 2027 elections. His supporters, while disappointed, expressed understanding of his decision, citing respect for the President’s authority and the party’s leadership structure.
The Lagos4Lagos Movement, which Jandor has been closely associated with, remains active in advocating for development and good governance in the state. However, with Jandor’s withdrawal, the movement’s focus may shift to supporting the party’s chosen candidate. The APC’s leadership in Lagos is now expected to rally behind Dr Hamzat, ensuring a unified front in the upcoming electoral cycle. This development also highlights the increasing role of national leadership in shaping state-level political outcomes across Nigeria.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, political observers will closely monitor how the APC’s internal cohesion affects voter turnout and campaign strategies in Lagos. Jandor’s decision may also influence other aspirants in the party to reconsider their positions, especially if presidential endorsements continue to shape candidate selection. The next phase of the governorship race will likely focus on campaign preparation and grassroots mobilization under Dr Hamzat’s leadership. This withdrawal marks a pivotal moment in Lagos State politics, setting the stage for a more consolidated APC campaign in the coming years.
Leave a Comment