Hamzat intensifies 2027 consultations as Ambode’s return reignites Lagos APC power struggle

The race for the 2027 governorship election in Lagos State is gathering pace as Deputy Governor Kadri Hamzat steps up consultations with key stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Hamzat has recently intensified meetings with influential figures in the party’s Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the apex decision-making body of the Lagos APC. His engagements are widely viewed as part of efforts to consolidate internal support ahead of the party’s primary election.

During his consultations, the Deputy Governor has met several prominent party leaders, including GAC Chairman Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Senator Anthony Adefuye, and former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Sabit Ikuforiji, among others. He is said to have been presenting his governance vision, positioning himself as a continuity candidate capable of sustaining the state’s development agenda.

The political atmosphere, however, has become increasingly competitive following the renewed visibility of former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, whose recent consultations and political signals have fuelled speculation about a possible comeback bid.

Although Ambode has not formally declared his intention, his growing engagement within party circles has heightened political calculations, with supporters insisting he remains a strong contender.

One party insider dismissed claims of a settled consensus arrangement, stressing that the contest remains open. “What Hamzat is doing is consultation, not endorsement. Anyone saying he has been adopted as a consensus candidate is only speculating. The party has made it clear that the race is still open,” the source said.

On Ambode’s possible return, a supporter of the former governor argued that he still commands strong legitimacy within the party. “He really deserves it. He didn’t fight the party, he didn’t decamp, and he remained disciplined even after leaving office. I can assure you he is in the race 100 per cent,” the supporter stated.

As consultations intensify on both sides, political observers say the emerging dynamics suggest a closely contested and highly strategic battle within the Lagos APC ahead of 2027.