As Nigeria marches toward the 2027 general elections, political activities are beginning to gather momentum—particularly in Lagos State, the commercial heartbeat of the nation. Within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a fierce battle is brewing over who will clinch the party’s coveted governorship ticket.
From political veterans to rising technocrats, the list of potential contenders reads like a who’s who of Lagos politics. Here’s a closer look at the individuals likely to shape the conversation in the months ahead:
1. Akinwunmi Ambode – Former Governor of Lagos State
Akinwunmi Ambode served as the Governor of Lagos State from 2015 to 2019. A technocrat turned politician, Ambode was known for ambitious infrastructure projects, including road expansions, environmental reforms, and the introduction of new BRT buses. However, his tenure was not without internal party tensions, culminating in his failure to secure a second term.
Ambode’s rumored return to the governorship race has stirred considerable interest, with loyalists citing his “unfinished business” and administrative experience as reasons for a comeback. Will the APC give him a second chance?
2. Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat – Current Deputy Governor
A long-time ally of the APC political structure in Lagos, Dr. Hamzat brings a unique blend of technocratic and political experience. Serving as the Deputy Governor since 2019, he has played a supportive role in the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, digital transformation, and economic planning.
With a PhD in System Process Engineering and vast experience in both private and public sectors, Hamzat is seen as a stabilizing force. But can he step out of Sanwo-Olu’s shadow and chart his own course?
3. Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila – Former Speaker & Current Chief of Staff to the President
Charismatic and influential, Femi Gbajabiamila served as the Speaker of the House of Representatives (2019–2023) and is now the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. With close ties to the presidency and deep-rooted political experience, Gbajabiamila enjoys considerable clout within the APC power structure.
He is viewed as a master strategist and policy thinker, making him a formidable contender should he declare interest. However, critics argue that his national role may make it difficult to focus on grassroots issues in Lagos.
4. Senator Tokunbo Abiru – Serving Senator, Lagos East
A banker-turned-politician, Senator Tokunbo Abiru is known for his technocratic background and measured style. Elected to the Senate in 2020, Abiru has focused on digital economy legislation and constituency development, including youth empowerment initiatives and skills acquisition programs.
Before his political career, he was the Managing Director of Polaris Bank and a former Commissioner for Finance in Lagos. Seen as a “quiet performer,” Abiru may appeal to those seeking competence over theatrics.
5. Hakeem Muri-Okunola – Principal Private Secretary to the President
Once the Head of Service in Lagos State, Hakeem Muri-Okunola (HMO) now serves as the Principal Private Secretary to President Tinubu—a position that keeps him at the center of Nigeria’s federal power dynamics.
As a lawyer and seasoned public administrator, Muri-Okunola has longstanding ties with key figures in Lagos APC. While not a grassroots politician in the traditional sense, his administrative brilliance and presidential proximity make him a dark horse in the race.
6. Tayo Akinmade Ayinde – Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor
Known within political circles as “Buffalo,” Tayo Ayinde is the current Chief of Staff to Governor Sanwo-Olu and a key player behind the scenes in Lagos politics. He previously served in the Department of State Services (DSS), bringing intelligence and security acumen to the political space.
As a long-serving insider with deep loyalty to the Tinubu political dynasty, Ayinde’s emergence would signal continuity. But can he successfully translate his behind-the-scenes influence into popular appeal?
7. Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (Jandor) – Former PDP Candidate, Now APC Returnee
In a twist that’s still sending shockwaves across the Lagos political landscape, Jandor recently rejoined the APC after contesting the 2023 elections under the PDP. Known for his grassroots movement “Lagos4Lagos,” he has built a strong base among the youth and disenchanted voters who crave a break from political tradition.
While critics question his political consistency, supporters hail his courage and vision. His return to APC signals a desire to “reform from within” and brings an unpredictable energy to the race.
The Stakes Are High
With Lagos being Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, the governorship seat is one of the most strategic positions in the country. Whoever emerges as the APC candidate will likely have a significant advantage in the 2027 general elections, given the party’s dominance in the state.
The primary will not just be a test of popularity but of strategy, loyalty, and the ability to inspire a coalition across Lagos’ diverse socio-political landscape.
Who Is Your Pick?
As the battle lines are drawn and political permutations begin to take shape, Lagosians and APC faithful are watching closely.
????? Who do you think should fly the APC flag in 2027?
???? Join the conversation in the comments—your voice matters!
