By Ridwanullah Sakariyah
Fresh political signals have emerged in Lagos as the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, begins consultations with influential figures within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), setting off a wave of reactions that reflect both rising support and deep scepticism over his possible governorship ambition.
Hamzat disclosed in a post on his X account that he met with members of the Governance Advisory Council, a powerful decision-shaping body within the Lagos APC.
The meeting, though presented as routine engagement, has been widely interpreted as an early move in the build-up to the 2027 governorship race.
He wrote, “Today, I began consultations with respected members of the Governance Advisory Council. We had honest, thoughtful conversations about the future of Lagos and the kind of leadership it requires.”
He added, “I value the experience and guidance shared. This is about listening, learning and working with others to build a stronger Lagos.”
The council, led by Tajudeen Olusi, includes senior political figures such as Bola Tinubu and Oluremi Tinubu. It holds strong influence over succession politics in Lagos which often determines who eventually emerges as the party’s candidate long before formal primaries begin.
While the deputy governor did not openly declare his intention to run, the timing and nature of the meeting have drawn attention across political circles and social media, where reactions have been swift, emotional, and sharply divided.
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One of the early endorsements came from Ayobami Oyetoro, who responded to Hamzat’s post on X.
He said, “Dr. Hamzat exemplifies true leadership. His meritorious service as Deputy Governor of Lagos State speaks for itself. As a mentor shaped by great mentors, he possesses the full spectrum of qualities that define great leadership & candidate without reservation.”
Support for Hamzat also came in strong emotional tones from another user on X, Adedeji.
He stated, “We’re rooting for you Sir, if it is about Lagos state, there’s no one having your level of experience, others are competent, they’re good too, but if it’s about who’s next in the line, none of them is on the same par with you, you’re well above them all, therefore it’s your turn.”
Another user identified as st_gabriel framed the deputy governor as a forward-thinking leader.
He said, “A Proactive Leader is indeed one who has a detailed projection he meticulously follows through… Not some reactionary thoughts. With KOH as the helmsman truly we are destined for GREATNESS…. Count me in, in whatever capacity for support and accomplishments.”
Another supporter, Usha George, emphasised trust and perceived competence in the deputy governor.
He declared, “I support you 100% even if my yes doesn’t count, I don’t know but I find you a very good man and someone who can lead Lagos to the next level especially by controlling the excesses of thugs, sanitation and transportation.”
The calls for Hamzat to step forward for the next administration in Lagos grew louder in some quarters as evident in the assertion of an X commenter named Celestial.
She said, “You have given more than anyone expected. Now is your time to rise as Number One – to lead Lagos as Governor. We are ready to vote for competence, reliability, and efficiency. Hamzat, let’s make it happen – together.”
In spite of the much admiration showered on Hamzat, not all reactions were in his praise. Some voices raised caution, particularly around political alliances and internal party dynamics.
Asiwaju Lukman A.A expressed concern, saying, “As much as @drobafemihamzat is a welcome candidate for Lagosians in the next governorship election. Koro is not the right person to promote Hamzat. Koro is not seen as a trusted politician in Lagos. Koro is a repentant, Rauf Aregbe. So Hamzat should not jeopardise his chances.”
Meanwhile, questions around identity and political belonging also surfaced.
A commenter identified as Big Sam wrote, “You’re a prince from Ogun State, yet you want to become governor in Lagos instead of serving your own state. If leadership is truly your goal, why not go back to Ogun and contest there, even alongside others like Yayi. Lagos has been good to u, u serve as deputy Governor for 8 yr.”
Another user, named Stateless, dismissed the consultation as belated, stating, “After all the years you’ve spent in the government you just started consultations today about the future of Lagos, Dey wine yourself.”
A more structural criticism came from Ola Cashapp, who urged broader engagement beyond elite circles.
He said, “Consultations are good but Lagos isn’t built in council rooms alone. Don’t forget traders, workers & D families facing daily realities. These folks aren’t just votes, they live the outcomes. True leadership listens to the grassroots. Carry us along. Act for D people. Lagos needs U.”
In a more blunt tone, an X user named Vasnioak questioned the motive behind continued public service.
She said, “Must u be governor?after 8years of been deputy at least go back home to attend to ur family, to ur personal business or medical practice..we know government is sweet..free house free food..free travel..free women..everything free..live the life u have now already.”
Another comment, laced with frustration, came from Oselu, who wrote, “Ordinarily, if the god of Lagos (Tinubu) will allow, either you or Ambode should be the next Governor of Lagos, but know, he will not, he will like to put some one that will not work and will be allocating the money for him to bribe angels wen he die.”
There was also an openly hostile remark from a user identified as chibuzor Darlington Odom, who said, “A bigot like you don’t deserve to oversee the leadership of our Lagos…”
Despite the harsh tone of some reactions, the volume of engagement points to a growing public interest in the state’s next political transition. Lagos, known for its structured political culture, often witnesses early alignments shaped quietly within party ranks before they surface in public contests.
Hamzat’s meeting with the Governance Advisory Council fits into this long-standing pattern, where aspirants begin consultations well ahead of the election cycle. Such moves are rarely accidental, and most times, indicate deeper calculations within the party hierarchy.
The deputy governor, who has served in the current administration for nearly two terms, is still considered a familiar figure in the state’s governance structure. However, his next move will likely depend not only on his consultations but also on how he navigates the complex web of party interests, public perception, and elite endorsement.
For now, he has kept his message measured, speaking of dialogue, learning, and collective progress. In spite of all of these, as reactions to his recent move have shown, the road to 2027 in Lagos may already be taking shape, not just in closed-door meetings, but in the loud, unfiltered court of public opinion.
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