Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday formally endorsed his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred successor for the 2027 governorship election.

The endorsement followed a closed-door meeting at Lagos House, Marina, where Hamzat declared his intention to contest before members of the State Executive Council and key party leaders.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the decision was unanimous among stakeholders present.

“We just received Mr Deputy… to inform us of his intention to contest for the seat of the governorship position of the state,” the governor said.

He described Hamzat as capable and experienced, expressing confidence in his leadership abilities.

“It was unanimous with all of us to say that Mr Deputy Governor is a man who is fit and well-prepared for this job. He is a man who knows where all the rooms in the house are,” he stated.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted Hamzat’s working relationship with him over the past seven years, commending his dedication and character.

“He is a man who has worked with me at the highest level of integrity, loyalty, commitment, and support,” he added.

The governor also acknowledged the role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in their political journey.

“We thank our father, our leader, Mr President, who saw the vision… that long run is what is already being manifested here today,” he said.

Reaffirming his position, Sanwo-Olu declared that Hamzat is ready to take over leadership of the state.

“This is a deputy governor that is worth a governor from day one… we believe that he deserves to be given a chance to go and run this state,” he noted.

The governor explained that the endorsement followed wide consultations with party leaders and government officials, describing the meeting as a “warm family gathering” with a shared consensus.

Hamzat has reportedly secured backing from prominent political figures, including Mudashiru Obasa, Femi Gbajabiamila, Tokunbo Abiru, and Wale Edun.

Meanwhile, Obasa is said to have shifted from his earlier governorship ambition and is now set to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Agege Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Findings indicate that Obasa, who had intensified consultations across the state by reviving the Mandate Group political structure associated with President Tinubu, adjusted his political strategy following consultations involving the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), which reportedly settled for Hamzat as the preferred governorship candidate.