Ambode backs Hamzat’s APC bid, targets 3M Tinubu votes

Former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday praised Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat after the All Progressives Congress (APC) formally adopted Hamzat as its consensus governorship candidate for Lagos State. Ambode’s statement highlighted Hamzat’s long‑standing loyalty to the party, describing his emergence as the result of “consistency and sustained commitment” to APC’s growth and unity.

Ambode said Hamzat’s consultations with key party stakeholders demonstrated a “deliberate effort to strengthen internal cohesion and advance the collective interests of Lagos State.” He added that the endorsement underscores confidence in Hamzat’s experience in governance and public administration.

In the same communiqué, Ambode reaffirmed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and pledged to back the president’s re‑election campaign in the 2027 general elections. “I restate my unshakeable commitment to support the re‑election of our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. I strongly believe that the greater prosperity of Lagos and indeed Nigeria is firmly tied to the continued governance of Mr. President,” Ambode said.

Ambode argued that the continuation of Tinubu’s leadership would consolidate national development and economic progress, noting that existing policies are expected to generate long‑term benefits for the country. He called on APC members in Lagos to intensify mobilisation ahead of the elections and set a target of at least three million votes for the president in the state. The former governor also urged party faithful to secure strong performances for APC candidates in the National Assembly and other elective positions.

Beyond Lagos, Ambode appealed for greater coordination among APC structures in the South‑West region to improve the party’s electoral prospects across the zone. He expressed optimism about the future of Lagos State and Nigeria, stating that “stronger days lie ahead for the ruling party and the nation at large.”

The adoption of Hamzat as the consensus candidate follows months of internal negotiations within the APC, which seeks to present a united front in the upcoming gubernatorial contest. The move positions Hamzat as the party’s standard‑bearer in a state that has been a key stronghold for the APC since its formation in 1999.