Early Jostling Begins for Lagos Governorship Ahead of 2027
Seyi Tinubu, Gbajabiamila Lead APC’s Unofficial Shortlist
As Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu enters his final term, the race to replace him in 2027 is already underway within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Among the names generating buzz are Seyi Tinubu, the President’s son; Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; and other powerful political players linked to Alausa.
Sources within APC circles say informal consultations and strategic alignments have already begun, as stakeholders prepare to decide who best represents the party’s continuity in Lagos State.
The Seyi Tinubu Factor – Groomed for Power?
Seyi Tinubu’s growing public presence and influence in political and business spheres have fueled speculation that he may be positioning himself for the state’s top seat. Though he has made no formal declaration, insiders say his name keeps resurfacing in power corridors, particularly given the family’s deep-rooted political machinery in Lagos.
Gbajabiamila, Obasa, Alausa Power Brokers in the Mix
Gbajabiamila’s National Influence
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives and now Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, is seen as a technocratic yet politically savvy contender. His links to the Tinubu political dynasty and experience at the national level make him a serious prospect.
Obasa’s Local Reach
Speaker Obasa, with deep ties in Lagos grassroots politics, is reportedly eyeing a major elevation. His tenure in the Lagos Assembly has made him a familiar figure with a reputation for loyalty to the APC structure.
Alausa’s Inner Circle Candidates
Other names emerging include key aides and technocrats working in Governor Sanwo-Olu’s cabinet or closely linked to the Alausa power base. Though less publicly visible, they may be supported as consensus or compromise candidates if party tensions rise.
APC’s Calculations and the Zoning Question
While APC remains silent officially, analysts say the choice of candidate will be influenced by internal zoning arrangements, religious balance, loyalty to the Tinubu dynasty, and ability to win votes across diverse voter blocs in Lagos.
A Lagos-based political analyst told thewatch.ng, “It’s no longer too early—this is the silent phase where real power games begin.”
