The Conference 57, representing 20 local government chairmen and 37 LCDA chairmen in Lagos, has endorsed Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat as its preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election. The endorsement was announced on Sunday by Conference 57 chairman Sesan Olowa during a meeting in Ikeja. Olowa stated the decision followed consultations with President Bola Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Governance Advisory Council leaders. He said the council chairmen were united behind Hamzat due to his experience, loyalty, and administrative competence.
Olowa praised Hamzat's long service to Lagos, noting his contributions across multiple administrations and involvement in key policy decisions. "We have no doubt about KOH's capacity because he has served Lagos diligently for many years," Olowa said. He added that the endorsement aligns with Lagos' goal of becoming a megacity. Conference 57 spokesman Olasoju Adebayo described Hamzat as an astute administrator who, as commissioner, laid foundations for technological and infrastructural advancement. Adebayo affirmed that grassroots leaders trust Hamzat and believe Lagosians support his candidacy.
In response, Hamzat thanked the council and LCDA chairmen for their confidence. He acknowledged their role as critical stakeholders due to their proximity to residents. Hamzat said the chairmen had also pledged support for President Tinubu and APC candidates in the 2027 elections. He emphasized the ruling party's understanding of Lagos' geography, challenges, and the solutions needed. Hamzat called for forward planning, citing the state's rapid population growth.
Sesan Olowa claims consultations with Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu and GAC leaders preceded the endorsement, yet none of those figures have confirmed involvement. If the president and governor were truly consulted, their silence undermines the claim of unity. If they were not, the endorsement risks appearing unilateral despite appeals to top-level consensus. Hamzat's candidacy now hinges on whether the backing of council chairmen translates into broader political weight.
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