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The Digest:

The Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) is experiencing internal strain following coordinated endorsements backing Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's preferred successor for the 2027 governorship election. After Sanwo-Olu's endorsement on April 27, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) and President Bola Tinubu also backed Hamzat. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns over what they describe as a top-down approach to candidate selection, warning it could undermine internal democracy. Aspirant Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor) has rejected consensus, insisting on direct primaries. Meanwhile, former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode congratulated Hamzat despite earlier calls for his own return.

Key Points:
  • Early endorsements create the impression that the governorship race is already decided.
  • Concerns over candidate imposition could weaken party cohesion and mobilisation.
  • Jandor insists on direct primaries for fairness and transparency.
  • Some stakeholders argue Epe Division deserves a second term after Ambode's single term.
  • Hamzat's backers counter that continuity and experience should be prioritised.

Sources: Daily Post, The Nation