The 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Lagos State, Abdulazeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has stated that Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat has not officially declared any intention to contest the 2027 governorship election.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s programme Politics Today, Jandor also dismissed speculation that President Bola Tinubu has endorsed any aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Lagos.
He explained that, as far as he knows, Hamzat has not informed anyone of a decision to run, adding that while the deputy governor is qualified and experienced, no formal declaration has been made.
On the issue of party arrangements, Jandor noted that the APC has not introduced any consensus plan for the primaries, stressing that the party had already indicated it would conduct direct primaries. He added that members would abide by whatever decision the party eventually takes.
Addressing rumours of presidential endorsement, he insisted that President Tinubu has not backed any candidate. According to him, if such a decision existed, aspirants would have been officially informed.
Jandor also revealed that he had met President Tinubu previously, stating that the president neither discouraged nor endorsed his ambition.
Defending his early declaration of interest in the governorship race, he said it was based on personal conviction and confidence in his political ambition.
He further remarked that Lagos politics remains largely dominated by the APC, suggesting that opposition influence in the state has significantly reduced, though he maintained he would support the party’s decision if he fails to secure its ticket.
The development comes as political activities gradually build up ahead of the 2027 Lagos governorship election, with several prominent figures within the APC reportedly being considered or speculated as potential contenders.
Among those linked to possible interest are Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Tokunbo Abiru, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Tunji Alausa.
