Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has thrown her weight behind the emergence of Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus governorship candidate, describing the development as proof of the state’s growing political maturity.
Hamzat was presented to the First Lady by members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), led by its chairman, Prince Tajudeen Oluyole Olusi, in a move that underscores the party’s unified stance ahead of the next election cycle.
Reacting to the presentation, Tinubu commended the GAC for its role in stabilising the party’s internal process, noting that Lagos continues to set the pace in Nigeria’s political evolution.
“Lagos has consistently led from the front politically. What you have demonstrated is unity and maturity. This is how democracy should evolve,” she said, adding that leadership ultimately comes from God.
She also praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his stewardship, expressing confidence that the transition process under his watch would be smooth and impactful.
Providing insight into the selection process, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Hamzat’s emergence followed wide consultations across party stakeholders, including aspirants who had indicated interest in the race.
According to him, 25 GAC members unanimously endorsed Hamzat, after which he was presented to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who also backed the decision.
“We are here to formally present him and seek your guidance and blessing,” the governor stated.
Speaking earlier, GAC leader Prince Olusi highlighted the cultural significance of the visit, stressing that Yoruba tradition accords women a central role in governance and decision-making.
Also lending her voice, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Adeyoke Orelope-Adefulire, applauded the First Lady’s contributions to national development and her support for the current administration.
She subsequently performed the formal presentation of Hamzat as the APC consensus candidate, signaling a major step in the party’s preparations for the Lagos governorship race.
