The race to succeed Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2027 has taken a dramatic turn, with fresh momentum building around the SMA GOLD movement following the exit of three high-profile aspirants from the contest.
Those now effectively out of the race are Femi Gbajabiamila, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, and Tunji Alausa.
Their chances of contesting the Lagos governorship under the APC platform were reportedly dashed after they failed to meet the March 31, 2026 resignation deadline said to have been set for political appointees seeking elective offices.
With the trio out, the political landscape has shifted significantly, leaving a tighter field of contenders and creating what observers describe as a โstrong signalโ for emerging movements like SMA GOLD to gain traction.
Among the leading figures still in contention are former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, both from Epe, alongside other notable aspirants including Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, Mudashiru Obasa, Tokunbo Abiru, Babajimi Benson, and SMA GOLDโs Samuel Mawuyon Ajose.
The latest development follows reports of high-level consultations during the Eid period, with sources suggesting that Hamzat may have secured backing from influential power blocs within the APC. However, conflicting accounts persist, as some insiders dismiss the endorsement narrative as premature, insisting that no final decision has been reached.
Meanwhile, supporters of Ambode continue to point to his growing acceptance among Lagos residents and party stakeholders, arguing that public sentiment could play a decisive role in determining the partyโs eventual flagbearer.
Within party circles, subtle realignments are also said to be underway, with discussions reportedly exploring alternative roles for some aspirantsโpotentially reshaping the political equation ahead of the primaries.
As uncertainty lingers over the APCโs final choice, the evolving dynamics suggest that the 2027 Lagos governorship race will be intensely competitive, with new signalsโparticularly the rising visibility of SMA GOLDโadding fresh intrigue to what is already shaping up to be a defining political contest in Lagos.
