In a significant development expected to reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose has formally withdrawn from the Lagos State governorship race and has thrown his full support behind Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.

Ajose, a prominent businessman, APC chieftain, and governorship aspirant from Badagry Division, announced his decision in a statement released on Tuesday. He described the move as a strategic step towards ensuring party unity, continuity of governance, and the sustained development of Lagos State.

“I have decided to step down from the governorship race in the interest of the party and the greater good of Lagos,” Ajose said. “After wide consultations with stakeholders, party leaders, and well-meaning Nigerians, I am convinced that Dr. Obafemi Hamzat possesses the vision, experience, and capacity to build on the remarkable achievements of the current administration under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.”

Dr. Ajose praised Hamzat’s track record as Deputy Governor, highlighting his contributions to infrastructure development, digital transformation, healthcare, education, and grassroots empowerment. He urged all APC members and supporters to rally behind Hamzat to deliver a landslide victory in the primaries and the general election.

The endorsement comes shortly after the APC’s Governance Advisory Council (GAC) adopted Hamzat as the party’s consensus candidate. This move has received backing from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Sanwo-Olu, and several party heavyweights.