Lagos 2027: The High-Stakes Race for APC’s Governorship Ticket Heats Up – Who Will Lead the Centre of Excellence?

 

As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, the political temperature in Lagos State is steadily rising, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC). The coveted governorship ticket is set to be a fiercely contested prize, with a strong lineup of prominent figures vying for the opportunity to lead the “Centre of Excellence.” Each candidate brings a unique blend of experience, political clout, and vision, making for a fascinating contest that will undoubtedly shape the future of this diverse and economically vital state.

 

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Lagos, a melting pot of cultures and the economic nerve center of Nigeria, demands a leader with a profound understanding of its complexities, a robust development agenda, and the capacity to unite its varied populace. Let’s delve into the uniqueness, strengths, weaknesses, and potential for developmental impact of each contender.

 

The Contenders: A Detailed Look

1. Akinwunmi Ambode, Former Governor of Lagos State

Uniqueness: Ambode’s primary uniqueness lies in being a former governor who faced an unprecedented “second-term jinx” in Lagos APC. His return to the political arena, after a period out of the limelight, marks him as a symbol of resilience and potentially, a fresh approach to governance, free from some of the immediate political pressures he faced previously. He represents a break from the immediate past in terms of style and approach.

Strengths:
* Experience: As a former governor, he possesses direct experience in leading the state, understanding its intricate administrative machinery and policy formulation.
* Financial Acumen: A chartered accountant and former Accountant-General of Lagos State, Ambode has a strong background in public finance, which is crucial for managing Lagos’s vast resources.
* Infrastructure Focus: His administration was noted for significant infrastructural projects, particularly in areas previously underserved.

Weaknesses:
* Political Acceptance: His past strained relationship with the party’s power brokers, especially the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), led to his inability to secure a second term. Overcoming this internal hurdle will be his biggest challenge.
* Perception of Isolation: During his tenure, some perceived a lack of widespread political consultations and engagement with party structures.
* Development Power for a Diverse State: Ambode’s re-emergence could bring a renewed focus on specific infrastructural development and urban renewal, especially in marginalized areas. His technocratic background might appeal to a segment of the population looking for efficient resource management. However, for a diverse state like Lagos, his ability to foster broad political unity and inclusivity would be key to maximizing developmental impact.

 

2. Dr. Kadri Hamzat, Current Deputy Governor

* Uniqueness: Dr. Hamzat stands out as the incumbent Deputy Governor, deeply ingrained in the current administration’s policies and achievements. He represents continuity and a deep understanding of ongoing projects and administrative processes. His technocratic background predates his current political role.

Strengths:
* Continuity and Stability: His position as Deputy Governor offers a seamless transition, promising stability and the continuation of existing developmental programs.
* Technocratic Background: With a strong background in technology and public service (former Commissioner for Science and Technology), he has a track record of driving innovation and process automation within the state.
* Loyalty and Experience: He has been a consistent figure within the Lagos APC and has served in various capacities, earning a reputation for loyalty and diligence.

Weaknesses:
* Shadow of the Principal: While a strength, his role as Deputy Governor means his achievements are often attributed to the current administration, potentially limiting his individual appeal outside of that context.
* Limited Independent Platform: He might need to carve out a more distinct independent platform to resonate broadly with different demographics.
* Development Power for a Diverse State: Dr. Hamzat’s focus on technology and efficient governance holds immense promise for a modern, diverse city like Lagos. His experience in streamlining processes and leveraging technology could significantly improve public service delivery and drive economic growth, benefiting all residents.

 

3. Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Current Chief of Staff to the President

* Uniqueness: Gbajabiamila’s uniqueness stems from his extensive legislative experience at the national level and his current proximity to the presidency. He brings a deep understanding of national politics and a powerful network that could translate into significant federal support for Lagos.

Strengths:
* National Clout: His role as former Speaker and current Chief of Staff to the President provides unparalleled access and influence at the federal level, which can be leveraged for Lagos’s benefit.
* Legislative Acumen: His long and distinguished career in the House of Representatives demonstrates a strong grasp of lawmaking and policy, crucial for effective governance.
* Oratorical Skills: Known for his articulate communication and intellectual prowess, he can effectively convey his vision to the public.

Weaknesses:
* Perceived Detachment from Local Issues: His long sojourn in Abuja might lead to a perception of being less attuned to the immediate, grassroots issues of Lagosians.
* “Abuja Politician” Tag: Some might view him as more of a national figure than a local champion, which could affect his grassroots appeal.
* Development Power for a Diverse State: Gbajabiamila’s national connections could open doors for significant federal investments and partnerships, which are vital for a mega-city like Lagos. His legislative background also suggests a capacity for robust policy formulation, crucial for addressing the myriad challenges of a diverse and rapidly growing population.

 

4. Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Current Senator representing Lagos East

* Uniqueness: Senator Abiru’s background as a seasoned banker and financial expert, coupled with his legislative experience, sets him apart. He represents a blend of corporate efficiency and political representation.

Strengths:
* Financial Expertise: His extensive career in banking, including leading a major bank, positions him as a candidate with strong economic management skills, vital for Lagos’s financial stability and growth.
* Legislative Experience: As a serving Senator, he understands the dynamics of lawmaking and advocacy, which can be beneficial in attracting federal attention and resources to Lagos.
* Corporate Discipline: His private sector background suggests a disciplined and results-oriented approach to governance.

Weaknesses:
* Limited Executive Experience: While he has legislative experience and private sector leadership, direct executive experience in governance might be perceived as a gap by some.
* Visibility Beyond Senatorial District: While well-known in Lagos East, he might need to broaden his appeal across the entire state.
* Development Power for a Diverse State: Senator Abiru’s financial acumen could be instrumental in diversifying Lagos’s revenue streams, attracting investments, and implementing sound economic policies that benefit businesses and individuals across various sectors. His corporate background could foster a more business-friendly environment, which is crucial for a state reliant on economic activity.

 

5. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Former Head of Service and Current Principal Private Secretary to the President

* Uniqueness: Muri-Okunola’s meteoric rise through the Lagos State civil service and now his high-profile federal role as Principal Private Secretary to the President makes him a unique blend of seasoned technocrat and presidential confidant. He is seen as a close ally of the current President.

Strengths:
* Administrative Experience: His extensive experience within the Lagos State civil service, culminating as Head of Service, provides an in-depth understanding of the state’s bureaucracy and public service machinery.
* Presidential Endorsement (Implied): His current role puts him in a very strong position, with the implied backing of the President, which is a significant factor in Lagos APC politics.
* Youthful Energy and Modern Perspective: Relatively younger than some other contenders, he could bring a fresh and modern approach to governance.

Weaknesses:
* Limited Direct Political Elective Experience: While highly experienced administratively, he has limited direct experience in competitive political campaigns and mass mobilization.
* Perception of being an “Appointed” rather than “Elected” Candidate: Some may view him as a product of appointment rather than grassroots political struggle, which could impact his popular appeal.
* Development Power for a Diverse State: Muri-Okunola’s administrative prowess could lead to significant reforms in public service delivery, making governance more efficient and responsive to the needs of Lagos’s diverse population. His federal connections could also facilitate smoother collaborations with Abuja on key developmental projects.

 

6. Tayo Akinmade Ayinde, Current Chief of Staff, Lagos State

* Uniqueness: Ayinde’s strength lies in his deep operational understanding of the current Lagos State government, serving as the Chief of Staff. He is a hands-on, behind-the-scenes operator who has been central to the execution of the present administration’s agenda.

Strengths:
* Operational Insight: His current role gives him an intimate understanding of the daily workings of the Lagos State government, its challenges, and opportunities.
* Loyalty and Trust: He is a trusted lieutenant within the current political structure, known for his loyalty and ability to get things done.
* Grassroots Connections (through current role): Being Chief of Staff often involves significant engagement with various stakeholders and communities across the state.

Weaknesses:
* Public Profile: Compared to some other contenders, his public profile might be less pronounced, potentially requiring more effort to build widespread recognition.
* Perception as an “Insider”: While a strength, being a quintessential insider could also be a weakness if the electorate seeks a significant departure from the status quo.
* Development Power for a Diverse State: Ayinde’s operational focus suggests a leader who can ensure the efficient implementation of policies and projects, which is vital for a fast-paced state like Lagos. His practical approach could lead to tangible improvements in various sectors, benefiting the diverse populace through better service delivery and infrastructure.

 

7. Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor), Former PDP Governorship Candidate who recently rejoined the APC

* Uniqueness: Jandor’s most significant uniqueness is his recent defection back to the APC after contesting as the governorship candidate for the main opposition party (PDP) in the last election. This gives him a different kind of visibility and a narrative of political evolution. He also represents a younger generation of politicians.

Strengths:
* Youthful Appeal and Charisma: Jandor is generally seen as a youthful and charismatic figure, capable of energizing a significant segment of the electorate, particularly younger voters.
* Experience as an Opposition Figure: His recent role as an opposition governorship candidate means he has actively engaged with diverse communities and understands the concerns of those outside the ruling party.
* Media and Entrepreneurial Background: His background in media and entrepreneurship could offer a fresh perspective on governance and economic development.

Weaknesses:
* Perception of Inconsistency: His recent party switch might raise questions about his political consistency and loyalty, which can be a critical factor in APC’s internal dynamics.
* Grassroots Integration within APC: While he has grassroots appeal, he needs to fully integrate and build trust within the APC structures after his recent return.
* Limited Executive/Legislative Experience: Compared to others, his direct experience in executive or legislative governance is less extensive.
* Development Power for a Diverse State: Jandor’s youthful energy and entrepreneurial spirit could inject dynamism into Lagos’s governance. He might champion policies that foster innovation, youth empowerment, and private sector growth, which are essential for a diverse and aspirational state. His experience in the opposition could also lead to a more inclusive approach to governance, addressing the concerns of different segments of society.

 

Conclusion

The ultimate choice rests with the delegates of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State, and subsequently, the electorate of Lagos State, who will weigh the strengths, weaknesses, and potential development power of each candidate against their own aspirations for the future of their diverse state.

 

The race for the Lagos APC governorship ticket in 2027 is indeed poised to be a captivating contest, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Lagos itself. Each aspirant brings a unique proposition to the table, and the outcome will be a significant determinant of Lagos’s trajectory in the coming years.