Lagos Gubernatorial Aspirants Emerge as Sanwo-Olu’s Tenure Winds Down
The political landscape of Lagos is already gearing up for the 2027 gubernatorial election, with numerous contenders throwing their hats into the ring. Key players are positioning themselves, and party machinations are underway, as the tenure of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu draws to a close.
APC Heavyweights Emerge
In the All Progressives Congress (APC), heavyweight politicians are lining up to lead Lagos. Those rumored to be vying for the top spot include Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu; Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; and Senator Tokunbo Abiru. The choice of APC candidate is likely to be influenced by factors such as religious considerations, zoning, indigeneity, and endorsements from powerful stakeholders like the Governor’s Advisory Council and President Tinubu.
Seyi Tinubu, a rising political star, has garnered support from various groups, while Speaker Obasa has announced his intention to govern, citing his extensive legislative experience. Former Governor Ambode is also gaining momentum, with some party members advocating for his return to maintain a 16-year balance between Christian and Muslim leadership.
Opposition Parties Gear Up
On the other side, opposition parties are not missing out on the action. Abdulaziz Olajide Adediran (Jandor) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party (LP) are reportedly repositioning themselves for the 2027 election.
Both Jandor and Rhodes-Vivour made significant impressions in the 2023 elections and are now focusing on rebuilding their party structures to enhance their chances in 2027. Jandor is rallying support among PDP founders, while Rhodes-Vivour is capitalizing on his popularity among Lagos’ youth, particularly in urban centers.
Religious Dynamics in Focus
Religion is likely to play a significant role in shaping the next Lagos governor. With Governor Sanwo-Olu, a Christian, succeeding Akinwunmi Ambode, another Christian, the total duration of Christian leadership would be 12 years by 2027. Some stakeholders argue that this marks the time to maintain the balance by returning power to a Muslim candidate, while others insist on completing a 16-year Christian leadership cycle to match the tenure of Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola, both Muslims.
Sanwo-Olu’s Journey and Power Dynamics
Sanwo-Olu’s emergence in 2019 marked a turning point in Lagos politics. The incumbent, Akinwunmi Ambode, was ousted by the APC power bloc led by Bola Tinubu, paving the way for Sanwo-Olu’s candidacy as a consensus choice.
His second-term ambition faced initial challenges, with rumors suggesting other candidates, including Femi Gbajabiamila and Hakeem Muri-Okunola, were being considered. However, public endorsements from Gbajabiamila and Muri-Okunola, coupled with widespread support from party members, solidified Sanwo-Olu’s position, enabling him to secure re-election.
Some APC chieftains believe that Tinubu is a master planner and can spring surprises at any given time. Lagos Deputy Governor, Babafemi Hamzat, also appeared to be in the running, but a source revealed that he may be relocated to Epe to create an opportunity for the Lagos East Senatorial seat and complete Akinwumi Ambode’s card.
Obasa’s Resilience and Ambition
Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the longest-serving Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, is another key figure to watch. During the 2025 budget presentation, Obasa addressed speculation about his governorship ambitions. While emphasizing his commitment to strengthening the APC, he did not rule out the possibility of running.
“Becoming governor is secondary,” Obasa said. “However, I am not too young or inexperienced to lead. My focus remains on building our party and ensuring that our state’s governance continues to thrive.”
Obasa’s grassroots connections and influence within the Mandate Group, an influential faction in Lagos APC politics, make him a formidable contender.
Opposition Realignment
In the PDP, Jandor is strengthening his ties with party stalwarts and aligning his Lagos4Lagos movement with broader PDP interests. Similarly, Rhodes-Vivour, who gained significant traction in the 2023 elections, is leveraging his popularity to position himself as a strong contender.
The Road Ahead
As the race for the 2027 Lagos gubernatorial election heats up, all eyes are on the APC’s eventual candidate. The decision will likely come down to internal party dynamics, religious considerations, and endorsements from key figures, including President Tinubu. For the opposition, unity and strategic alliances will be crucial in challenging the APC’s dominance.
