In Lagos State, the process of selecting governorship candidates within the All Progressives Congress (APC) is widely regarded as one shaped by internal consultations among influential stakeholders rather than purely open contests.
As the timeline for party primaries approaches, aspirants are increasing engagements and consultations, reflecting a competitive environment where alliances and strategic positioning often determine outcomes.
Among those linked to the race are Akinwunmi Ambode, Abdul-Azeez Adediran, and Hakeem Muri-Okunola, alongside the incumbent deputy governor, Obafemi Hamzat.
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Born on September 19, 1964, Hamzat hails from a family with roots in public service, with his father, Olatunji Hamzat, having served in both legislative and executive roles in Lagos.
He began his education at Odu Abore Memorial Primary School in Mushin and later attended Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo State.
Hamzat proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a degree in agricultural engineering in 1986 and a master’s degree in crop processing engineering in 1988.
He later earned a doctorate in system process engineering from Cranfield University in 1992, completing the programme within three years.
Before entering government, he worked across several organisations, including Columbia University, Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, and Oando Plc, building a profile associated with technical and managerial expertise.
ENTRY INTO PUBLIC SERVICE
Hamzat formally joined public service in 2005 under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, serving as commissioner for science and technology.
During this period, he oversaw initiatives aimed at modernising administrative processes, including the introduction of enterprise systems designed to improve efficiency.
His role continued under Babatunde Fashola, who retained him in cabinet and later reassigned him as commissioner for works and infrastructure in 2011.
In that capacity, he supervised major projects such as the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge and sections of the Lekki-Epe expressway, alongside multiple road developments across the state.
LONG-STANDING GOVERNORSHIP AMBITION
Hamzat’s interest in the governorship position dates back to the period preceding the 2015 elections, when he contested for the party’s ticket but did not emerge as candidate.
In that primary, Akinwunmi Ambode secured the nomination, while Hamzat finished as runner-up.
He made another attempt ahead of the 2019 elections but later withdrew from the contest.
“After due consultations with my numerous supporters and in deference to the wise counsel of those I consider my political mentors, I have resolved to step down from the governorship race in Lagos on the platform of our party and, instead, pool resources together with my brother and friend, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu,” he said.
Following this decision, he became running mate to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, with the joint ticket subsequently winning the election.
HISTORIC TENURE AS DEPUTY GOVERNOR
If current timelines are maintained, Hamzat is set to complete two consecutive terms as deputy governor by 2027, marking a first since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
Previous office holders, including Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, Olufemi Pedro, and Oluranti Adebule, served shorter durations.
This extended tenure places him in a unique position within the state’s political structure and highlights continuity within the governing party.
However, historical patterns indicate that no deputy governor in Lagos has directly succeeded a sitting governor, presenting a structural hurdle to such a transition.
CONSULTATIONS AND PARTY ALIGNMENTS
Recent weeks have seen increased consultations by Hamzat with key party stakeholders, including members of the Governance Advisory Council, regarded as a central decision-making body within the party in Lagos.
He has also engaged with political figures such as Babatunde Fashola, reflecting efforts to consolidate support across different blocs.
On April 10, James Faleke publicly expressed support for Hamzat, urging backing for his potential candidacy.
The influence of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos politics remains significant, with his role historically linked to the emergence of successive governors in the state.
Equally, the president endorsed Hazmat on Wednesday. While discussions within party circles suggest growing backing for Hamzat, other aspirants are still expected to participate in the primary process.
Observers note that although internal alignments may shape early expectations, the formal selection process remains a defining stage in determining the party’s eventual candidate.
