APC Denies Consensus Lagos Governorship Candidate for 2027 Election
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly dismissed recent reports suggesting that the party had agreed on a consensus governorship candidate for Lagos State in anticipation of the 2027 election. Sources within the party have clarified that no such agreement was reached during high-level discussions involving President Bola Tinubu and South West leaders.
Focus on Party Unity and Strategy
According to multiple insiders who attended a closed-door meeting, the gathering centered on broader political strategies rather than candidate selection. The discussions reportedly emphasized party unity in the South West region, preparations for the upcoming APC National Convention, and measures to strengthen support for President Tinubu ahead of the next general elections. One participant explicitly stated, "There was no conversation about consensus candidates for Lagos or any other state." Instead, the meeting focused on mobilisation efforts and positioning the party for future electoral responsibilities.
No Endorsement or Succession Talks
Sources confirmed that President Tinubu reiterated his commitment to internal democracy, urging that aspirants be allowed to compete through recognised party processes. No endorsements were issued, and no aspirants were presented or screened during the meeting. Additionally, reports linking Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat to a consensus ticket were described as inaccurate and misleading. Insiders were unanimous in stating that no succession plan for Lagos was tabled, with one source noting, "Reports suggesting a consensus arrangement are simply rumours."
Broader Discussions on Governance
The meeting also included a briefing by President Tinubu on his recent visit to the United Kingdom, outlining implications for Nigeria's economic relations and investment prospects. This formed part of a wider conversation on governance and national outlook, rather than electoral positioning. Party leaders were encouraged to deepen grassroots engagement and communicate government policies more effectively to the public, including efforts to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
Ongoing Consultations in Lagos APC
Consultations within the Lagos chapter of the APC remain ongoing and informal, with no official timetable yet for selecting the party's flag bearer. Any eventual selection will comply with constitutional provisions and electoral guidelines. This development comes amid earlier reports of other political ambitions, such as the Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu declaring his intent to run for governor in Oyo State in 2027, though he clarified his return to APC was for reconciliation purposes, not to succeed the current governor.
