Lagos State 2027 governorship aspirant, Samuel Ajose, has officially withdrawn from the race ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election, declaring his full support for Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat.
Ajose announced his decision on Tuesday, describing it as a painful but necessary step taken in the interest of party unity and political stability within the Lagos APC structure.
He admitted that the decision was not easy, noting that it came after deep personal reflection and internal struggle over the future of the party and its stakeholders.
“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 further explained that his withdrawal was influenced by considerations of what would best serve party members and the broader political ecosystem in Lagos State.
“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 we made sure we took care of the needs of everybody and I think it’s the best for you,” he said.
Formally announcing his exit from the contest, Ajose stated that he was stepping down in favour of collective progress within the party and pledged his support for Hamzat’s campaign.
“In the interest of the party, I Governor Samuel Anose 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.”
His withdrawal adds to a growing list of aspirants stepping down from the Lagos governorship race as internal consensus building continues within the APC ahead of the primaries.
The development also follows a similar move by former Lagos governorship candidate Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, who earlier withdrew and endorsed Hamzat after high-level party endorsements.
Jandor had previously stated that his decision was influenced by the backing Hamzat received from President Bola Tinubu and key APC leaders in Lagos State.
With multiple withdrawals and endorsements reshaping the political landscape, attention is now shifting toward how the APC will consolidate its position ahead of the 2027 Lagos governorship contest.
What You Should Know
Samuel Ajose’s withdrawal from the Lagos governorship race highlights a growing trend of internal realignments within the APC as the party moves toward selecting its 2027 flagbearer.
His endorsement of Obafemi Hamzat strengthens the deputy governor’s position following similar support from other influential figures, including Abdul-Azeez Adediran.
The development reflects the increasing influence of party leadership consensus in determining electoral outcomes in Lagos politics. It also signals a possible consolidation strategy aimed at reducing internal competition and unifying stakeholders ahead of the primaries.
As more aspirants step down, the contest appears to be narrowing significantly around the party’s preferred candidate.
