2027: Seyi Tinubu, Ambode, Obasa, Jandor, Others Compete for Sanwo-Olu’s Seat

 

2027: Seyi Tinubu, Ambode, Obasa, Jandor, Others Compete for Sanwo-Olu’s Seat

 

With 30 months remaining in his tenure, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State continues to firmly occupy the state’s seat of power. However, the political scene is already buzzing with activity as contenders eye the 2027 gubernatorial race. Both ruling and opposition parties are laying the groundwork, with several key players positioning themselves for a shot at the Alausa Round House.

 

APC’s Frontline Aspirants

In the All Progressives Congress (APC), several high-profile figures are emerging as potential candidates to lead Lagos in 2027. Among the rumored aspirants are Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu; Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; and Senator Tokunbo Abiru. The final choice of the APC’s candidate will likely depend on key factors, including religion, zoning, indigeneship, and the backing of influential bodies like the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) and President Tinubu himself.

 

Seyi Tinubu, a rising political star, has already garnered significant endorsements from various groups, positioning him as a strong contender. Speaker Obasa, known for his extensive legislative experience, has openly declared his readiness to govern Lagos, citing his experience and leadership capabilities. Meanwhile, former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode remains a subject of interest, with some APC members advocating for his return to restore the balance of leadership between Christians and Muslims, following a 16-year cycle.

 

Opposition Gearing Up for a Fight

On the other side, opposition parties are also gearing up for the battle ahead. Abdulaziz Olajide Adediran (Jandor) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party (LP) are reportedly preparing to renew their political ambitions in 2027. Both figures gained significant traction during the 2023 elections, with Jandor leading the Lagos4Lagos movement and Rhodes-Vivour becoming particularly popular among the city’s younger electorate.

 

 

Jandor, who is working to solidify his ties with PDP founding members, is focused on ensuring greater alignment with the party’s structure for the 2027 race. Similarly, Rhodes-Vivour, who remains a favorite among younger voters, is positioning himself as a viable alternative to the APC’s stronghold on Lagos.

 

Religious Dynamics in the 2027 Election

Religion is expected to play a pivotal role in the selection of the next Lagos State governor. Governor Sanwo-Olu, a Christian, succeeded Akinwunmi Ambode, also a Christian, bringing the state’s Christian leadership to a total of 12 years by 2027. This has sparked debates about whether it is time for a Muslim candidate to take the helm or if the 16-year Christian leadership cycle, which mirrors the tenures of national figures like Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola, should be completed.

 

Sanwo-Olu’s Journey and Political Landscape

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s rise to power in 2019 marked a significant shift in Lagos politics. His predecessor, Akinwunmi Ambode, was ousted by a faction within the APC led by Bola Tinubu, clearing the path for Sanwo-Olu as the consensus candidate. Though his second-term ambitions faced initial challenges, with rumors suggesting potential contenders such as Femi Gbajabiamila (now Chief of Staff to the President) and Hakeem Muri-Okunola (Lagos Head of Service), Sanwo-Olu secured re-election through strategic public endorsements and strong support within the party.

 

Despite this, some APC chieftains believe that Tinubu, as a master political strategist, can spring surprises at any given time, indicating that the 2027 race could still have unexpected twists.

 

In addition, there are growing speculations about the future ambitions of Lagos Deputy Governor, Babafemi Hamzat. While some suggest that Hamzat may seek to succeed Sanwo-Olu, sources within the party have hinted at plans for him to run for the Lagos East Senatorial seat, potentially completing the political trajectory set for Ambode’s legacy.

 

Obasa’s Resilience and Ambitions

Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the longest-serving Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, remains a formidable figure in the race. In his remarks during the 2025 budget presentation, Obasa addressed the growing rumors about his gubernatorial ambitions. While emphasizing his commitment to strengthening the APC, he did not rule out the possibility of running, stating that while becoming governor is not his primary focus, he is more than capable of leading the state.

 

Obasa’s deep grassroots connections, along with his influence within the Mandate Group (a powerful faction in Lagos APC), make him a serious contender for the governorship.

 

Opposition Realignment and Strategy

In the PDP, Jandor continues to rally support among party stalwarts and is working to align his Lagos4Lagos movement with the broader interests of the party for the 2027 race. Likewise, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour is strengthening his position by leveraging his popularity, particularly among young urban voters, to present himself as a strong alternative to the APC.

 

The Road Ahead

As the 2027 Lagos gubernatorial election approaches, the APC’s candidate will remain a key focal point. Internal party dynamics, endorsements from significant stakeholders like President Tinubu, and religious considerations will all play crucial roles in determining the eventual nominee. For the opposition, unity and strategic realignment will be essential in challenging the APC’s long-standing dominance in Lagos politics.

 

The political battle for Lagos in 2027 promises to be fierce, with key players already positioning themselves for what is sure to be a highly contested race.