As preparations for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election gain momentum, political activities within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are intensifying, with speculation mounting over zoning arrangements and potential candidates.
The political tempo accelerated following President Bola Tinubu’s directive requiring political appointees with ambitions for elective offices to resign by March 31. Observers note that the development has sparked heightened consultations, negotiations, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering across the state.
Current analyses indicate that the governorship ticket may likely be zoned to Lagos East senatorial district. This has prompted prominent figures from the zone to begin early discussions to secure the party’s nomination. Among those frequently mentioned are former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Lagos East Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, Minister of State for Health Tunji Alausa, and House of Representatives member Jimi Benson. Other potential aspirants include Femi Gbajabiamila, former Speaker of the House, and President Tinubu’s Principal Secretary, Hakeem Muri Okunola.
While party leadership has not formally confirmed zoning arrangements, speculation suggests that Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, could feature prominently in a strategic power-sharing formula, potentially representing Lagos West in the Senate.
Deputy Governorship Slot Focus on Lagos West
Attention has also shifted to the deputy governorship position, with indications that it may be zoned to Lagos West as part of a broader political balancing strategy. Intense lobbying is reportedly underway, particularly in the Badagry division and other key areas within the district, where party stakeholders are advocating for greater representation in the state’s executive leadership.
Political blocs such as the Justice Forum and the Mandate group, known for their influence in deputy governorship selections, are actively involved. Names being floated for the deputy governorship include Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole, former Oriade Local Government Chairman Ramota Hassan-Ijaiye, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic Education Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Chairman Prince Lanre Sanusi, and former chairman Ayodele Adewale (“Lord Mayor”). Others under consideration are Samuel Ajose (SMA), Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adeniran, and technocrat Prince Wale Oluwa, whose profile has reportedly gained traction among Badagry stakeholders.
Some insiders note that Adeniran and Ajose could also be considered for possible federal appointments outside Lagos State, which could influence the final deputy governorship decision.
Factors Likely to Shape Decisions
Analysts suggest that several factors will likely guide the party’s choices for both governorship and deputy governorship tickets. These include religious balance, generational considerations, and the ongoing debate over indigenous representation. While the incumbent governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is Christian, some stakeholders are reportedly advocating for a Muslim successor.
Political conversations also hint at a possible arrangement where Lagos East produces the governor, Lagos Central the deputy governor, and Lagos West the Speaker of the State House of Assembly.
As consultations continue, the coming months are expected to see increased alignments and realignments within the APC as aspirants and party stakeholders position themselves ahead of official announcements on zoning and candidate selection for the 2027 governorship race.
