The Digest: The All Progressives Congress is moving toward a consensus arrangement to select Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat as its governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Lagos, with Senator Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) favoured for Ogun and Senator Sharafadeen Alli for Oyo. The decisions emerged from a meeting of South-West APC stakeholders with President Bola Tinubu in Lagos on Sunday. The consensus approach aims to foster internal cohesion, though other aspirants in each state continue to lobby for consideration. The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled governorship elections for February 6, 2027.
Key Points:
- The consensus arrangement reflects President Tinubu's direct involvement in shaping the APC's South-West electoral strategy.
- In Lagos, Minister of Education Tunji Alausa and other prominent figures remain in contention despite the preference for Hamzat.
- In Ogun, Governor Dapo Abiodun's preference for Senator Shaibu Salisu conflicts with the party leadership's choice of Yayi.
- In Oyo, Senator Alli is seen as the candidate acceptable to all factions, with Minister Bayo Adelabu facing concerns over his electoral viability.
- Stakeholders are expected to meet further to finalize compensation for aspirants who may step aside.
As the APC moves toward consensus, the party faces the delicate task of balancing presidential preference, stakeholder interests, and the ambitions of multiple aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sources: The Punch
