Tension In Lagos Politics As Rufai Oseni Speaks On Tinubu Endorsement Buzz

Oseni made the remarks during an interview on ARISE Television’s Morning Show, while reacting to Sanwo-Olu’s recent endorsement of Hamzat following a closed-door meeting at Lagos House, Marina, where the deputy governor formally declared his interest in the 2027 governorship race before members of the State Executive Council and key political stakeholders.

Although acknowledging the endorsement, Oseni argued that political outcomes in Lagos are often influenced by the position of President Bola Tinubu, popularly referred to as “Baba” or “Jagaban,” suggesting that no aspirant can be assured of victory without his backing.

He maintained that regardless of endorsements from the governor or the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), final political influence in the state is widely believed to rest with Tinubu.

Oseni also said he has heard claims from various individuals who believe they have received Tinubu’s endorsement, advising Hamzat to remain cautious until there is clear and public confirmation from the President himself.

He referenced past political developments in Lagos, including the removal of former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and controversies surrounding the leadership of the Lagos State House of Assembly involving Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, as examples of unpredictable political shifts in the state.

According to him, “Babajide Sanwo-Olu can endorse his deputy, and the GAC can also support him, but based on Lagos political history, unless ‘Baba’ explicitly says it, Hamzat should not be too comfortable.”

Oseni added that he remains skeptical because several individuals in the past have also claimed to have secured presidential backing that later did not materialize, stressing the need for caution in interpreting political endorsements.