Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial race, has rejected rumors suggesting he is restricted to a single term in office. In a recent interview, Hamzat emphasized his commitment to the state’s future, highlighting the necessity of continuity in governance and the importance of solidifying progress made under the current administration.
Reflecting on the role of a governor, Hamzat compared the position to a team captain tasked with aligning technical expertise with a clear vision to improve the welfare of Lagosians. He noted that while his current administration has advanced the THEMES Plus agenda, major projects often require more than a single term to reach completion, reinforcing the idea that government is an ongoing process.
Addressing the upcoming elections, Hamzat stated that his team is meticulously drafting a comprehensive manifesto. Rather than creating a shallow document, they are engaging with market traders, academics, and industry experts to prioritize critical needs, such as reliable water supply and infrastructure rehabilitation. He stressed that administrative decentralization and stricter organizational discipline are vital for state and national development.
Regarding security and urban planning, the deputy governor asserted that his administration would leverage existing technological frameworks and expand them to ensure safety. He expressed a strong commitment to enforcing the rule of law, noting that public spaces like walkways and markets must be used for their designated purposes to foster an orderly society.
When questioned about internal party dynamics and the selection of his running mate, Damilola Sonayon-James, Hamzat explained that these decisions involve complex balancing acts regarding regional representation, gender inclusion, and the need for younger leadership. He reflected on his own history of stepping down for the party’s benefit, advising others that political growth requires patience and alignment with party objectives. He also dismissed internal conflicts, such as those within the Justice Forum, as distractions that hinder progress.
Finally, Hamzat addressed the issue of building collapses in Lagos. He clarified that the government is moving away from sole reliance on civil servants for inspections, opting instead to implement a Certified Accreditors Programme. This initiative will empower private sector engineers to oversee new construction, ensuring that safety standards are strictly upheld to prevent future disasters.
