TDDr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, widely known as Jandor, has announced his withdrawal from the 2027 Lagos State gubernatorial race under the All Progressives Congress (APC). His decision follows the endorsement of Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Lagos Governance Advisory Council (GAC).
In a statement released on April 30, Jandor explained that while he had earlier procured the APC Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms, he chose to step aside in deference to party unity and cohesion.
“This decision is not borne out of weakness or a lack of capacity, but out of strength, discipline, and a deep respect for party cohesion and unity,” Jandor said.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and expressed respect for President Tinubu’s leadership, describing it as central to the stability and progress of both the party and the nation. Jandor also extended gratitude to the Lagos4Lagos Movement, emphasizing that the cause of equity, inclusion, and a better Lagos remains alive, even as he aligns with the party’s chosen direction.
Tinubu’s Endorsement of Hamzat
President Tinubu’s endorsement of Hamzat reportedly took place during a high-level meeting with members of the Lagos GAC, chaired by Tajudeen Olusi and attended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The move effectively settles the APC governorship ticket ahead of the 2027 elections, reinforcing the party’s tradition of consensus candidacy in Lagos.
Party insiders argue that consensus arrangements help prevent divisive primaries and maintain unity. However, critics contend that the practice undermines competitive politics and fosters what analysts describe as “state capture”—a concentration of political power within a narrow elite.
Opposition figures and civil society groups warn that sidelining aspiring candidates outside entrenched networks weakens democratic institutions and erodes public confidence in the electoral process.
Political Outlook
Hamzat’s endorsement underscores Tinubu’s enduring influence in Lagos politics, even as he serves at the national level. The GAC continues to play a pivotal role in shaping political outcomes, often acting as the ultimate arbiter in leadership selection.
While APC loyalists defend the consensus process as legitimate under Nigeria’s electoral framework, critics argue that Lagos politics increasingly operates through “selection” rather than “election.”
The controversy surrounding Hamzat’s emergence is expected to fuel broader debates about internal party democracy, electoral competitiveness, and the balance between political stability and inclusive participation as the 2027 general elections approach.
Jandor’s withdrawal marks a significant turning point in Lagos APC politics, consolidating Hamzat’s candidacy under Tinubu’s influence. The development highlights the tension between party unity and democratic competitiveness, setting the stage for a closely watched 2027 election in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
