APC Sources: President Tinubu Has Not Endorsed Any Candidate for 2027 Lagos Governorship
Sources within the All Progressives Congress (APC) have categorically stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not endorsed any aspirant for the upcoming 2027 Lagos State governorship election. This clarification comes in response to widespread speculation and false claims circulating on social media platforms, which suggested that the President had already thrown his support behind a particular candidate.
Viral Message and Misinterpreted Post Spark Confusion
According to party insiders, the controversy was ignited by a widely circulated WhatsApp message that alleged a meeting between President Tinubu and members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) had resulted in an endorsement. The confusion was further compounded by a social media post from federal lawmaker James Faleke, which some party supporters misinterpreted as indicating backing for Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat.
Party sources emphasized that the photograph referenced in these claims, showing the President alongside key APC figures, was misread and taken out of context. They explained that the meeting in question was focused on routine party and state matters requiring consultation with the President, rather than any succession arrangement or endorsement process.
Call for Caution Amid Ongoing Consultations
APC stakeholders have urged party members and supporters to exercise caution and avoid drawing premature conclusions from unverified claims. They noted that consultations among party leaders are still ongoing, and no official position has been announced regarding a preferred candidate for the 2027 election.
"Premature speculation could create unnecessary tension and deepen internal divisions within the party," one source was quoted as saying. This warning highlights the delicate nature of the political landscape in Lagos, where factions such as the Mandate Group and the Justice Forum have shown signs of unease over perceived attempts to dominate political positions.
Concerns Over Internal Party Tensions
Observers have expressed concerns that the spread of unverified information could exacerbate existing divisions within the APC in Lagos. The party has been navigating internal dynamics, and the premature speculation surrounding the 2027 governorship race risks undermining unity and cohesion.
Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the party's spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. This lack of immediate official comment has left room for continued speculation, but APC sources remain firm in their denial of any endorsement by President Tinubu.
As the 2027 election approaches, the APC is expected to engage in thorough consultations and due process before announcing any candidate. The party's leadership is keen to avoid the pitfalls of early politicking and maintain focus on governance and party stability.
