The road to 2027 is already revealing its contours.
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Discontent is rife among party loyalists, many of whom anticipated political appointments that never materialized. Internal grievances have led to blame games and factional tensions, testing party unity across the board. Yet, Nigeria’s democratic journey remains on course—dynamic, resilient, and ever evolving.
At the national level, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to steer the country under his Renewed Hope agenda.
Unsurprisingly, Lagos State his political stronghold and foundational base is in the spotlight. It is not only because of Tinubu’s roots in the state’s political structure; it is because the Lion of Bourdillion requires a continuous loyal base in Lagos so as to function properly and maintain his federal grip.
Though Tinubu has yet to make a formal declaration regarding a second-term bid, his body language and political maneuvers strongly suggest he will be on the ballot. A renowned political strategist, Tinubu appears to be setting the stage.
However, Lagos State the epicenter of his influence is already witnessing early signs of an intense political contest, particularly surrounding the race to succeed Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
Speculation is rife, and political permutations are complex. Rumors even suggest that Seyi Tinubu, the President’s son, may be eyeing the governorship an addition that would dramatically alter the calculus in what is already a high-stakes contest.
For observers and analysts alike, the Lagos 2027 governorship race is shaping into one of the most intriguing power contests of the Fourth Republic—where ambition, loyalty, history, and generational aspirations are set to collide.
Key Contenders in Focus
DR. OBAFEMI KADIRI HAMZAT
Dr. Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat, the current Deputy Governor, known for his intellect and composed demeanor, was born into the political arena. His emergence in public office was not accidental, but rather shaped by legacy and preparation.
Many believe he was the natural successor to Akinwunmi Ambode before internal party strategies shifted the outcome. Though reserved, his name still holds considerable weight in the succession equation.
TAYO AYINDE
Tayo Ayinde, Chief of Staff to Governor Sanwo-Olu and a longstanding Tinubu loyalist, has long nursed gubernatorial aspirations. Known for his discipline and soft-spoken nature, Ayinde is respected within party circles.
However, reliable sources suggest that President Tinubu has asked him to defer his ambition, possibly in anticipation of a strategic role for him in Abuja after Sanwo-Olu’s exit.
SEYI TINUBU
Seyi Tinubu continues to generate serious political chatter. Youth movements and interest groups have placed him at the center of future Lagos leadership debates. Although he has not officially declared his interest, his engagements both symbolic and strategic suggest an awareness of the political moment.
While opinions remain divided, many political stakeholders agree he possesses the pedigree, capacity, and constitutional right to run.
FEMI GBAJABIAMILA
The former Speaker of the House of Representatives and current Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, remains a towering figure in Lagos politics.
Known for his legislative prowess and political tact, Gbajabiamila has what it takes to transition into an executive role. With deep roots in Surulere and national stature, his entry into the governorship race would be formidable.
HAKEEM MURI-OKUNOLA
Hakeem Muri-Okunola, former Head of Service in Lagos and now Principal Secretary to the President, was once rumored to be Sanwo-Olu’s potential replacement.
While he stepped aside due to party consensus, his influence remains. As one of the most experienced technocrats close to Tinubu, his name continues to surface in strategic discussions.
TOKUNBO WAHAB
Quietly rising is Tokunbo Wahab, widely believed to be Governor Sanwo-Olu’s preferred successor. Currently serving as Commissioner for the Environment, Wahab is seen as a technocrat with the right blend of modern vision and administrative competence.
Insiders note that he was the original choice for Chief of Staff before political considerations handed the role to Ayinde.
Should he clinch the party ticket, Wahab’s reputation for environmental transformation and reform-driven leadership will serve as major campaign capital. However, he will face significant resistance from both within and outside the party.
AKINWUNMI AMBODE
Though his tenure as governor was cut short after just one term, Akinwunmi Ambode remains one of the most admired figures in Lagos’ recent political history.
His bold reforms, infrastructural expansion, and technocratic governance earned him widespread support among citizens.
Many Lagosians still view his exit as politically engineered rather than performance-driven. His name continues to inspire strong public sentiment and a possible comeback cannot be ruled out.
OLAJIDE ADEDIRAN
Olajide Adediran (Jandor), a former member of the PDP and leader of the Lagos4Lagos movement, remains one of the most recognizable opposition figures in Lagos.
Though he came a distant third in the last election, his mass appeal and ground mobilization made him a headache for the ruling APC.
Recently defecting to the APC, Jandor shocked many by securing a swift audience with the President, a signal that his defection may be part of a bigger play for 2027. His political intelligence and ambition make him a force to watch.
TOKUNBO ABIRU
Senator Tokunbo Abiru of Lagos East combines corporate leadership with public service.
Handpicked to replace the late Bayo Osinowo, one of Tinubu’s closest allies, Abiru has steadily built a reputation for competence, humility, and vision.
His private-sector acumen, combined with legislative experience, positions him as a capable contender for the state’s top job.
FURTHER READING
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- ICAN Applauds Bold Tax Reforms Signed Into Law by Tinubu
As the 2027 governorship race intensifies, the contest in Lagos will not be solely about personalities. It will be about the future of a state that has historically set the pace for urban governance in Nigeria.
Whether it’s the return of a beloved former governor, the rise of a technocrat, or the emergence of a political heir, one thing is clear: Lagos is entering a defining era. The choices made in the next election will shape not just the state’s trajectory, but the legacy of its most influential son—President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
