Obafemi Hamzat, the deputy governor of Lagos State and the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the 2027 elections, has appointed former Senator Musiliu Obanikoro as the director-general of his campaign organization. The announcement was made during an expanded meeting of the campaign council presided over by Hamzat on Wednesday, June 3.
Background of the Appointment
Sources close to the development revealed that the appointment of the two-term minister was earlier approved by President Bola Tinubu before it became public. The decision was based on Obanikoro's extensive political experience, having served as a senator, minister, and veteran politician considered an election general.
According to insiders within the campaign council, none of the members objected to Obanikoro's nomination. They described him as a unifying figure with whom everyone can work, citing his tenure in multiple appointed and elective offices as a testament to his capabilities.
Public Reactions to the Appointment
The appointment has sparked diverse reactions from Nigerians. Wale Ibrahim commented that it was expected, noting Obanikoro's visible presence alongside Hamzat. Stephen Emmanuels questioned Obanikoro's electoral record, while Matthew Oriahi criticized the former senator's long hold on power without private investment. Ogbonna Daniel praised the move as a notable political strategy. Martin-Rita suggested Obanikoro is positioning himself as chief of staff.
These reactions highlight the mixed sentiments surrounding the appointment, with some seeing it as a strategic consolidation of political experience and others questioning its implications.
