Lagos 2027: Sanwo-Olu Recounts How Hamzat Gave Up Governorship Ambition For Him

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has revealed that leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) persuaded his deputy, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, to withdraw from the 2018 governorship race to allow him to emerge as the party’s candidate.

Sanwo-Olu made the revelation on Friday while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the presentation of Hamzat’s governorship manifesto at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, formerly known as the National Theatre, in Iganmu, Lagos.

The governor disclosed that Hamzat had initially been interested in becoming governor and possessed the political experience, public service record and support required to pursue the ambition.

According to Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat had spent 13 years in public service under former Lagos governors Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola before the 2018 governorship election.

He explained that Hamzat was actively pursuing the governorship ticket when influential APC leaders approached him and requested that he step aside in his favour.

Sanwo-Olu said Hamzat accepted the request, despite having a strong personal ambition to lead the state, and subsequently agreed to become his running mate approximately five weeks later.

The governor described the decision as a significant political sacrifice, stressing that he had never forgotten the support and loyalty demonstrated by his deputy.

He noted that many politicians might have accepted such a decision reluctantly or developed resentment afterwards, but Hamzat chose to support him and work together towards the development of Lagos State.

Sanwo-Olu further explained that his decision to publicly endorse Hamzat was based on their seven years of working together, during which he had witnessed his character, commitment and contributions to governance.

He praised his deputy for remaining dependable during challenging periods of their administration, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the October 2020 crisis and the implementation of major infrastructure projects across the state.

The governor recalled that Hamzat was actively involved in the government’s response when Nigeria recorded its first COVID-19 case in Lagos, describing him as a trusted partner during the difficult period.

Sanwo-Olu also highlighted the cordial relationship between them, noting that their administration had avoided the political disagreements and public confrontations that have sometimes characterised relationships between governors and their deputies in other states.

He maintained that throughout their seven years in office, he had never questioned Hamzat’s loyalty or commitment to their administration.

According to the governor, their ability to maintain a united administration with a common direction and purpose was largely due to Hamzat’s character, cooperation and dedication to the interests of Lagos State.