As dawn breaks and the clock ticks, the countdown to the end of Babajide Sanwo-Olu‘s tenure as the governor of Lagos State has begun, ThePAPERS News Editor, David More writes.
Within political circles, there is a palpable quiet anticipation surrounding the succession race, with various individuals rumored to be eyeing the coveted seat. The air is filled with speculation as four prominent names emerge as potential contenders to succeed the current governor of Lagos State.
The emergence of any candidate in the state is heavily dependent on the strong backing of President Bola Tinubu and other political stakeholders. Regardless of their wealth and popularity, the candidate’s relevance is determined by their alignment with the state political godfather’s policies and the influence of party leaders who are loyal to the godfather. The four prominent names are: …CONTINUE READING
Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila
Among the four personalities, Femi Gbajabiamila is a top name with years of experience in governance, currently serving as the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu. Gbajabiamila was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2003 representing the Surulere I constituency of Lagos State. He was re-elected and served for six (6) consecutive terms.
Femi is not the people’s choice in the state despite his years of experience in governance, and his chances of emerging as the party candidate in 2027 is not certain. He has been perceived as a difficult personality and may not be trusted in terms of party structure.
Hon. Mudashiru Obasa
The current speaker of the Lagos state, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has reportedly been rumored to be actively seeking the party’s ticket through lobbying efforts. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa was born 11 November 1972, is a Nigerian lawyer and politician who has served as speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly since 2015.
The main challenge he faces in securing the party ticket is the opposition from the governor, which stems from various factors, including the rejection of his commissioners at the state assembly on two separate occasions and other internal issues within the party. But Obasa’s fate can only be determined by the president.
Dr. Hakeem Muri Okunola
Dr. Hakeem Muri Okunola, also known as HMO, previously served as the Lagos State Head of Service and is currently working as a private secretary to President Tinubu. However, his prospects to emerge as Lagos State governor may be influenced by the issue of zoning. He has been a standout member of President Tinubu’s inner circle in the Lagos cabinet, and there have been widespread rumors suggesting that he is the chosen candidate of the president for an upcoming position. Okunola is a public administrator and technocrat.
Senator Tokunbo Abiru
In the Lagos East region, Senator Tokunbo Abiru has risen as the leading aspirant for the upcoming elections. Known for his prominence as a technocrat, he has successfully garnered substantial support from numerous APC supporters within his constituency. Nonetheless, concerns have been raised regarding his depth of experience and exposure to effectively lead and govern Lagos. Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru FCA was born in 25 March 1964, he is a Nigerian banker and politician. He is the Senator representing the Lagos East Senatorial District at the 9th Nigerian National Assembly.
