2027 Lagos Guber Race: Opposition Mounts Against Seyi Tinubu, Obasa

With Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State still having over 30 months to serve, the political scene is already abuzz as key figures position themselves for the 2027 governorship race. Among the leading contenders are Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu; Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly; former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; and Senator Tokunbo Abiru of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

On the opposition side, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for 2023, Abdulaziz Olajide Adediran (Jandor), and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party (LP) are reportedly nurturing ambitions to contest once again.

Key Factors Shaping the Race

1. Religion and Zoning:
   • Since 1999, Lagos politics has often balanced religious representation. With Christians holding the governorship for 12 years by 2027, some stakeholders are advocating for power to return to Muslims. Others suggest former Governor Ambode should return to “complete” the Christian leadership cycle.
2. The Tinubu Influence:
   • President Bola Tinubu, Lagos’ political godfather, remains a pivotal force. His endorsement of Sanwo-Olu in 2019, over Ambode, is a testament to his influence in determining the APC’s candidate.
3. Grassroots and Party Dynamics:
   • Speaker Obasa, Lagos’ longest-serving Speaker, has strong grassroots ties. His alignment with the Mandate Group and control over the State Assembly solidify his base. On the other hand, Seyi Tinubu has been receiving endorsements from groups like the Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL), sparking debates over his readiness for public office.

Seyi Tinubu: Endorsements Amid Criticism

Seyi Tinubu’s bid has divided opinions. While youth groups like CONYL praise his entrepreneurial and philanthropic achievements, critics like Joe Igbokwe, a prominent APC member, argue that Lagos’ leadership demands greater experience.

• CONYL’s Stand:
  “Seyi Tinubu is not a boy but a man, fully prepared and capable of delivering,” said CONYL President-General Goodluck Ibem, dismissing criticisms as baseless.
• Igbokwe’s Response:
  “To govern a state like Lagos is not a job for ‘boys,’” Igbokwe countered, describing the push for Seyi’s candidacy as a distraction.

Mudashiru Obasa: Resilience and Grassroots Support

Speaker Obasa remains a formidable contender with a strong grassroots presence. His leadership of the Lagos Assembly and connections within the APC’s Mandate Group have bolstered his reputation as a key player.

Addressing rumors of a governorship ambition, Obasa said:
“Becoming governor is secondary. However, that does not mean I am too young or lack the experience to run.”

Opposition’s Playbook

• Jandor (PDP) and Rhodes-Vivour (LP) are positioning themselves as the faces of change in Lagos.
• Jandor has been strengthening alliances within the PDP to secure the party’s ticket, while Rhodes-Vivour continues to build on his popularity from the 2023 elections.

Indigeneship Debate

A coalition of Lagos Indigenous Youths has vowed to oppose non-indigenous candidates, calling for a “true Lagosian” to emerge as governor. The group’s President, Abdul Kareem Whyte, accused non-indigenes of marginalizing Lagosians, warning against moves to secure endorsements from traditional rulers.

“We will fight dirty if the Oba of Lagos allows anti-indigenous moves,” the group stated.

APC’s Position

The Lagos APC leadership, represented by Publicity Secretary Seye Oladejo, dismissed reports of a brewing rivalry between Obasa and Seyi Tinubu as distractions.

“2027 is not on the agenda now. Our focus remains impactful governance and strengthening the party,” Oladejo said.