Uncertainty continues to surround who will become the next governor of Lagos State as the All Progressives Congress maintains that no aspirant has been officially endorsed ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party’s position comes amid growing political tension following the arrival of Bola Tinubu in Lagos for the Easter holidays, a visit widely interpreted by insiders as a pivotal moment in determining who succeeds Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
For weeks, speculation has intensified that Tinubu, long viewed as the dominant political force in Lagos, could use his presence in the state to quietly indicate his preferred candidate. Observers believe that even a subtle endorsement from the president could significantly influence the direction of the race.
Several prominent figures have been mentioned in political discussions, including former governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat, alongside other aspirants who are reportedly building alliances behind the scenes.
However, emerging insights from within political circles suggest that Tinubu may once again surprise many with his eventual choice. According to a source familiar with internal deliberations, the president is unlikely to back anyone with a strong independent political structure. This has fueled speculation that a relatively unknown figure, possibly from within the Lagos civil service or even from Abuja, could emerge as the preferred candidate.
This possibility has deepened intrigue within the party, reinforcing a long-standing pattern in Lagos politics where key decisions often come from within a tight inner circle and are revealed unexpectedly.
There is also a widespread belief that before leaving Lagos, Tinubu may provide strategic direction, either openly or subtly, that could shape how party stakeholders align ahead of the primaries.
Amid the rising tension, the Lagos APC leadership has sought to calm party members by reiterating its commitment to a transparent and competitive selection process. State Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, emphasized that all positions remain open and that no candidate has been endorsed.
He explained that the party intends to adopt a direct primary system while allowing room for consensus where broadly accepted by stakeholders. He also assured that the process would strictly follow the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission and comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
Ojelabi encouraged all interested aspirants to participate, noting that nomination and administrative fees would not be refundable. He further promised a level playing field, stating that the process would be conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
In addition, he highlighted the party’s intention to support female aspirants as part of efforts to promote gender inclusion in politics.
While these assurances aim to reduce internal friction, political observers believe the ultimate outcome may still depend heavily on signals, whether direct or indirect, from Tinubu during his stay in Lagos.
What you should know
The Lagos 2027 governorship race is already generating significant political tension, with the APC insisting on an open contest despite widespread belief that President Bola Tinubu will influence the outcome.
His presence in Lagos has heightened expectations of a possible endorsement, although insiders suggest he may favor a less prominent candidate.
While party leaders promise transparency through direct primaries, history indicates that internal dynamics and elite backing will play a decisive role in determining the eventual candidate.
