Lagos and Akwa Ibom: Early Intrigues as Party Primaries Begin
With political party primaries set to begin nationwide next week, attention is already shifting to key battleground states such as Lagos and Akwa Ibom, where early alignments and silent power plays are beginning to shape the direction of the 2027 elections.
According to the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), party primaries will run from April 23 to May 30, 2026, setting the stage for intense internal contests across parties.
In Lagos, the race appears to be tilting early in favour of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who has reportedly received strong backing from the influential Justice Forum within the ruling APC. The group, which includes notable political heavyweights such as former Governor Babatunde Fashola and key members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), has already signalled its preference for Hamzat as the successor to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Although the primaries are yet to be officially conducted, the endorsement has significantly shaped the conversation within the party, quietly narrowing the field for other aspirants like former House Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila and Lagos Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Another contender, businessman Samuel Ajose (popularly known as SMA Gold), is also said to be in the race but faces an uphill battle against the established party structure.
In Akwa Ibom, the situation appears more settled on the surface. Governor Umo Eno, through his support group “Arise with Renewed Hope Initiative,” has been actively consolidating support across the state and beyond. The group has embarked on consultations in Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Lagos, reaching out to stakeholders in what many see as a coordinated move toward securing an unopposed return ticket.
Political observers say the governor is currently without any visible challenger within the APC, raising the possibility of a relatively smooth primary process—something that would be a first for the party in the state.
The opposition, however, remains uncertain. In the PDP, lingering internal crises continue to weaken party structure and morale. While names such as former House of Representatives member Onofiok Luke and ex-commissioner Ini Ememobong were initially expected to contest, both have remained largely silent amid unresolved factional disputes.
Even more surprising is the emergence of broadcast journalist Michael Bush, who recently declared his governorship ambition under the PDP, describing it as a “divine agenda.” His entry has generated mixed reactions within political circles, especially given his previous public criticisms of Governor Eno. Some insiders suggest his move may be driven by personal grievances, while others argue he may yet define a clearer political message as the race unfolds.
In the African Democratic Congress (ADC), recent congresses have produced new state leadership, with Senator John James Akpanudoedehe emerging as a central figure. Early indications suggest he is positioning himself as the party’s likely governorship candidate, enjoying strong backing within the structure.
As the primaries draw closer, both Lagos and Akwa Ibom are already showing the familiar mix of alliances, endorsements, ambitions, and quiet rivalries that define Nigeria’s electoral season. While some contests appear almost settled, political history suggests that surprises are never far away once the race fully begins.
