2027 Lagos Gubernatorial Race: Obasa, Tinubu, Ambode, Jandor Lead Contenders

2027 Lagos Gubernatorial Race: Obasa, Tinubu, Ambode, Jandor Lead ContendersWith 30 months remaining in his tenure, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State remains firmly in office, but the political scene is already heating up as contenders begin positioning themselves for the 2027 gubernatorial race.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Both ruling and opposition parties are laying the groundwork for what promises to be a highly competitive election. Key players are stepping forward, with several high-profile politicians eyeing the coveted Alausa Round House.

APC’s Leading Contenders

In the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), several prominent figures are rumored to be vying for the governorship. The list includes 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 selection of the APC candidate will likely hinge on several factors, including religious balance, zoning, indigeneship, and the support of influential stakeholders, such as the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) and President Tinubu himself.

Seyi Tinubu, a rising star in Lagos politics, has already garnered endorsements from various groups. Meanwhile, Speaker Obasa, with his extensive legislative experience, has made it clear that he is ready to govern the state. Former Governor Ambode, who has maintained a strong base of support within the party, is also being touted for a potential comeback, with some arguing that his return would balance the 16-year religious leadership cycle between Christians and Muslims.

Opposition Gearing Up

On the opposition side, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) are preparing to field strong candidates. Abdulaziz Olajide Adediran (Jandor) of the PDP and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the LP are reportedly gearing up for a rematch in 2027.

Jandor, who led the Lagos4Lagos movement, continues to work on strengthening ties with PDP founding members, while Rhodes-Vivour remains a popular figure, particularly among younger voters in Lagos’ urban centers. Both figures made significant inroads in the 2023 elections and are now recalibrating their strategies for a stronger push in 2027.

The Role of Religion in the 2027 Race

Religion will likely play a key role in determining who becomes Lagos’ next governor. By 2027, Sanwo-Olu, a Christian, will have overseen 12 years of Christian leadership, following Akinwunmi Ambode, who was also a Christian. Some stakeholders argue that it may be time to return power to a Muslim candidate, while others insist on maintaining a Christian leadership cycle, aligning with the 16-year tenure of Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola, both Muslims.

Sanwo-Olu’s Journey and Power Dynamics

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s rise to power in 2019 marked a pivotal moment in Lagos politics. His predecessor, Akinwunmi Ambode, was ousted by the APC power bloc led by Bola Tinubu, paving the way for Sanwo-Olu as a consensus candidate.

As Sanwo-Olu eyes a second term, rumors surfaced that other candidates, including Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, and Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Lagos’ Head of Service, were potential contenders. However, Sanwo-Olu secured re-election with the support of key figures like Gbajabiamila and Muri-Okunola, solidifying his position.

Some APC chieftains, however, believe that Tinubu, a master strategist, may surprise everyone with unexpected moves. Meanwhile, Lagos Deputy Governor Babafemi Hamzat is also reportedly considering his own bid for the governorship, with rumors suggesting plans for him to run for the Lagos East Senatorial seat, completing what was originally Akinwunmi Ambode’s political agenda.

Obasa’s Political Resilience

Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the longest-serving Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, is another influential figure in the race. While he has yet to formally announce his candidacy, Obasa has been clear about his political ambitions. In a recent statement during the 2025 budget presentation, he said, “Becoming governor is secondary, but I am not too young or inexperienced to lead. My focus remains on strengthening our party and ensuring that Lagos continues to thrive.”

Obasa’s deep grassroots connections, along with his influence within the Mandate Group—a powerful faction in Lagos APC—make him a formidable contender in the race.

Realignment in the Opposition

In the PDP, Jandor is working to solidify his position by aligning his Lagos4Lagos movement with broader party interests, while Rhodes-Vivour is using his growing popularity, especially among younger voters, to strengthen his 2027 bid.

The Road Ahead

As the race for Lagos State’s 2027 governorship intensifies, all eyes are on the APC’s eventual candidate. The decision will likely be influenced by internal party dynamics, religious considerations, and key endorsements, including from President Tinubu. For the opposition, strategic alliances and unity will be crucial in challenging the APC’s dominance in the state. The next 30 months are sure to shape what promises to be one of the most closely watched political contests in Nigeria.

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