Dr. Hamzat Appoints Obanikoro as Campaign DG for 2027 Lagos Governorship Bid

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has named former Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, as Director-General of his 2027 governorship campaign, strengthening early political mobilisation within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Epe Insights reports that the appointment follows Hamzat’s formal submission of his expression of interest and nomination forms at the APC national secretariat in Abuja.

The development marks a major step in the consolidation of Hamzat’s governorship ambition as he continues consultations across party structures and political blocs in Lagos State.

Obanikoro, a former PDP governorship candidate in Lagos in 2007 before joining the APC in 2017, has been actively involved in Hamzat’s consultations and strategic engagements.

He has accompanied the deputy governor to meetings with key political figures including leaders of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), party executives, and senior government officials.

Among those visited are Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, and political leaders across Ikorodu, Mushin, and Surulere divisions.

At a meeting with Gbajabiamila, Obanikoro described Hamzat’s support base as strong and expanding, noting broad endorsements across political stakeholders.

He also emphasized Hamzat’s experience and suitability for leadership, describing him as well-grounded in Lagos politics.

During a separate engagement at Speaker Obasa’s residence, Obanikoro further expressed confidence in Hamzat’s capacity to sustain development across the state.

Hamzat, in a post on X, described his ambition as a continuation of service and commitment to improving governance outcomes for residents and businesses in Lagos.

He noted that while progress has been achieved, more work remains to be done to strengthen public service delivery and development initiatives.

The deputy governor has intensified consultations since April 13, engaging political leaders, party executives, and grassroots stakeholders across the state.

His campaign structure has reportedly received backing from key APC stakeholders, including elements within the GAC and state leadership structures.

Speaker Mudashiru Obasa has publicly expressed support for Hamzat’s aspiration, describing him as the preferred candidate of the party ahead of the primaries.

APC leaders in Lagos have also reiterated confidence in his experience, leadership capacity, and long-standing involvement in state governance.

The Governance Advisory Council is reported to have played a central role in early endorsements, with multiple party blocs aligning behind his candidacy.

Political observers note that Obanikoro’s involvement adds broader political reach, given his experience across both PDP and APC structures.

Campaign insiders say the strategy is focused on consolidating unity across party factions while strengthening grassroots mobilisation ahead of the primaries.

Hamzat has repeatedly emphasized continuity, development consolidation, and alignment with the broader vision of the APC in Lagos State.

He has also called for unity within the party, stressing the importance of cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.