Lagos 2027: GAC Endorses Hamzat as Consensus Candidate for APC Governorship Race

The Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the highest decision-making body of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, has endorsed Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat as its consensus candidate for the party’s governorship primaries ahead of the 2027 general election.

The GAC endorsement marks a major political development in Lagos politics, where party structures and internal alignments often play a decisive role in leadership succession. The decision was announced after a closed-door strategic meeting held at Lagos House, Marina, attended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and key party leaders.

GAC Throws Weight Behind Hamzat’s Aspiration

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside GAC leader Prince Tajudeen Olusi, formally confirmed the council’s backing for Hamzat’s governorship ambition. According to party insiders, the GAC endorsement reflects confidence in the deputy governor’s experience, loyalty, and years of service within the Lagos political system.

In a further show of commitment, the 34-member council agreed to purchase the APC governorship nomination form for Hamzat, valued at N50 million. The gesture is being interpreted as a strong signal of institutional support for his candidacy ahead of the party primaries.

Although only 23 members of the council were present at the meeting, notable attendees included Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, and Cardinal James Odunmbaku, among others.

Primaries to Hold Despite Consensus Decision

Despite endorsing Hamzat as its preferred aspirant, the council stated that party primaries would still be conducted for all elective positions in accordance with APC guidelines. This, it said, would ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for other interested contenders.

Political observers note that while consensus endorsements often carry significant weight within party politics, the conduct of primaries remains an important democratic process that allows wider participation among party members.

The announcement may also shape the calculations of other aspirants who may have been considering entering the race, as Hamzat now appears to enjoy the backing of influential party stakeholders.

Emotional Political Reunion at Lagos House

Earlier, Governor Sanwo-Olu had openly declared support for Hamzat during a consultation visit involving members of the GAC and APC leaders. The meeting took place shortly after the Lagos State Executive Council meeting at the State House in Marina.

During the gathering, both leaders shared emotional reflections on their political relationship and journey over the past seven years. Sanwo-Olu recalled their earlier days in public service under former Governor Babatunde Fashola, noting that both men played strategic roles in cabinet decision-making.

He also highlighted how their careers intersected under the broader political mentorship of President Bola Tinubu, underscoring the continuity often associated with Lagos political leadership transitions.