The All Progressives Congress is reportedly leaning toward adopting a consensus strategy to pick the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, as its governorship flagbearer for the 2027 election in Lagos
Party insiders also revealed that stakeholders are backing Olamilekan Adeola, widely known as Yayi, for Ogun State, while Sharafadeen Alli is being favoured for Oyo State.
These positions reportedly followed a closed-door meeting between President Bola Tinubu and key APC stakeholders from Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states, held in Lagos on Sunday night.
The gathering came shortly after Tinubu hosted Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 governors at his residence for Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. Sources disclosed that beyond the festivities, another strategic session was convened to deliberate on preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections, while governorship and State Assembly polls are slated for February 6, 2027. The commission also stated that party primaries are expected to take place between April and May 2026, with candidates emerging before the end of May.
Under the amended Electoral Act 2026, political parties can select candidates either through consensus arrangements or direct primaries. The APC has historically leaned toward consensus, often citing the electability and broad acceptance of such candidates.
Tinubu, who returned to Lagos after a brief state visit to the United Kingdom, is said to be actively engaging in consultations during the Sallah period, particularly on succession plans in key South-West states ahead of the elections.
With Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo being the only South-West states scheduled for governorship polls in 2027, the President is reportedly focused on consolidating the party’s chances in the region.
