Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has officially submitted his Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the 2027 governorship election at the secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja. The submission marks a significant step in his bid to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Hamzat's Commitment to Service
Speaking after the submission, Hamzat reaffirmed his dedication to service, responsible leadership, and the continued progress of Lagos State. He stated that his decision to contest was driven by a sense of duty to the people of Lagos and a resolve to build on the existing developmental strides achieved under the current administration.
Call for Zoning in Lagos Mainland
Meanwhile, a House of Representatives aspirant for Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency, Abdulhakeem Animashahun, has urged the APC to zone the party's ticket to Ebute-Metta West ahead of the 2027 general elections. Animashahun argued that fairness, equity, and security considerations demand a shift in political representation within the constituency.
Decades of Imbalance
During a live interaction, Animashahun outlined decades of imbalance in the zoning of the House of Representatives seat between the two major blocs in Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency. He noted that Constituency II has dominated the seat for a disproportionate period, holding it for about 20 out of the last 27 years. In contrast, Constituency I has only had approximately eight years of representation since 1999.
Historical Context
Animashahun explained that the initial tenure from 1999 to 2007 was held by a representative from Constituency II, who later moved to Constituency I, further complicating the zoning balance. After Constituency II completed what should have been its second cycle of representation, the seat was expected to return to Constituency I.
Strategic Importance of Zoning
He stressed that adopting a zoning arrangement would not only address longstanding grievances but also serve as a strategic move to prevent potential violence and ensure broader political participation in Lagos Mainland. By ensuring equitable representation, the APC can foster unity and stability within the constituency.
