Obafemi Hamzat, deputy governor of Lagos State, says he will serve with integrity, focus and a clear sense of purpose if elected as the next governor.
The remark followed the endorsement of his 2027 governorship aspiration by Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the state governor.
According to a video on social media, Sanwo-Olu endorsed Hamzat as his successor during a meeting with party leaders at the governor’s office in Alausa on Monday.
The governor, who described Hamzat as the “best man for the job,” also offered prayers for his deputy, wishing him strength, peace and divine support in his future endeavours.
“Peace of mind, peace in your family among your children, wife, spouse and everybody. That which you require, God will provide it for you: renewed strength, God Almighty will make it available for you,” Sanwo-Olu said.
At the end of the meeting, Sanwo-Olu embraced his deputy and raised his hand before party members and leaders in a symbolic gesture that drew applause from those in attendance.
In an appreciation post on his X page, Hamzat said Sanwo-Olu’s endorsement means “a great deal” to him.
“Today, I am honoured by the endorsement of my Governor, my brother and my friend, HE Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu,” he wrote.
“His trust means a great deal to me. We’ve worked side by side in the service of Lagos State, and I don’t take this vote of confidence lightly.”
“I remain committed to building on the progress we’ve made together, and look forward to serving Lagosians with integrity, focus and a clear sense of purpose.”
The development comes amid recent speculation over possible contenders for the 2027 Lagos governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with political discussions suggesting that Hamzat had emerged as a leading contender.
However, Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, a former governorship candidate, had earlier dismissed claims that the party had settled for a preferred aspirant.
In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Gbenga Ogunleye, Jandor said no formal decision had been taken by the party leadership.
He added, however, that he would align with the outcome if the party eventually adopts a consensus candidate for the race.
