…. Gbajabiamila, Alausa, Obasa, Seyi Tinubu others top list as search begins
The political landscape in Lagos State is evolving quickly as the countdown to the 2027 gubernatorial election begins, drawing the attention of various political actors and groups eager to see their preferred candidates rise to power, 1steleven9jatv.com.
Among the names garnering attention is Femi Gbajabiamila, who currently serves as Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and previously held the influential role of Speaker of the House of Representatives. Gbajabiamila’s supporters, including notable figures such as Nollywood actor and legislator Desmond Elliot, are rallying behind him as they believe that his established relationship with the President and extensive political experience position him as a strong candidate for the upcoming governorship race.
However, despite this wave of support, there are reservations within the party regarding his age, with some members arguing that the state requires a younger leader to address its fast-paced and complex challenges. The call for a fresh face has sparked discussions about the necessity for power to rotate among Lagos’s administrative districts, collectively referred to as IBILE—Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe. Historically, governors have emerged from either Lagos Island or Epe, leading to a push for broader representation.
Epe, previously represented by former governor Akinwunmi Ambode, now sees Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, as a potential candidate capable of rebalancing power and renewing the region’s political influence after Ambode’s contentious exit from office.
Meanwhile, Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has hinted at his openness to entering the race without committing to a candidacy, igniting further speculation.
Additionally, whispers about Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, potentially joining the race have stirred conversations both locally and among diaspora groups, despite his lack of public declaration. The scenario places the APC’s highest decision-making body, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), in a delicate position as they weigh the implications of the President’s son’s possible candidacy.
In Ikorodu, demands for representation at the helm grow, with figures like Rep Babajimi Benson and current Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat considered for the governorship. Others propose Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, with her expertise in diaspora affairs, as a fitting choice for deputy governor, should the position move to another district.
Adding to the mix are voices advocating for Badagry, a district without gubernatorial representation since 1999, to finally have its turn. Senator Tokunbo Abiru from the Lagos East Senatorial District, which covers areas including Epe and Ikorodu, is also a name rising in prominence among party circles.
With the competition intensifying and many regions vying for recognition, the race for Lagos State’s governorship in 2027 promises to be an intriguing and heavily scrutinized battle, shaping what could be a pivotal moment in the state’s political journey.
