Lagos 2027: No agreement I'll spend one term as gov: Hamzat

Dr. Obafemi Hamzat has spent the last seven years as the deputy governor of Lagos State, serving under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, with whom he has a long-standing friendship that predates their current tenure. As he gears up to run for governor in 2027, Hamzat is making it clear that he has no intention of being bound by the one-term rule, which has become a contentious issue in Nigerian politics. In a recent interview, Hamzat stated unequivocally that he will not agree to a one-term deal as governor, should he win the election.

As the deputy governor, Hamzat has played a crucial role in the Sanwo-Olu administration's THEMES Plus agenda, a guiding principle that has overseen the implementation of various projects across the state. With a staggering 537-page manifesto, Hamzat is promising a comprehensive plan to tackle the state's challenges, including flooding, waste management, and enhancing the quality of life for residents. The sheer scale of the manifesto is evidence of the depth of the issues Hamzat and his team aim to address.

Lagos is Nigeria's economic hub, with a population that continues to grow exponentially. As such, the state's governance issues are of national significance. The APC, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has been at the forefront of Lagos politics for decades. Hamzat's bid for the governorship is, therefore, not only a personal ambition but also a reflection of the APC's continued relevance in the state. His decision to run against the one-term rule is a significant departure from the party's traditional stance, which has often prioritized stability over term limits.

Hamzat's manifesto, while ambitious, is not without its challenges. The state's infrastructure, particularly its transportation system, is in dire need of upgrade. Flooding remains a perennial problem, with the state's drainage system creaking under the pressure of rapid urbanization. The APC's ability to deliver on its promises will be put to the test in 2027, as Lagosians demand more from their leaders. Hamzat's promise to enhance the quality of life for residents is a welcome respite from the state's notorious traffic congestion and poor waste management.

As a seasoned politician, Hamzat is no stranger to the cutthroat world of Lagos politics. His decision to run for governor is not just about personal ambition but also about leaving a lasting legacy. For Hamzat, the role of governor is not just about delivering on promises but also about making a tangible difference in the lives of Lagosians. His commitment to serving a full term is evidence of his conviction that he can make a meaningful impact in the state.

As the 2027 governorship election approaches, Hamzat's determination to serve a full term is a significant development in Lagos politics. While the APC's dominance in the state is not in doubt, Hamzat's bid for the governorship is a clear indication that the party is willing to take risks to achieve its goals. Whether Hamzat will succeed in his bid to become Lagos's next governor remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his commitment to serving a full term is a notable step that will be closely watched by politicians and residents alike.

With his extensive experience in governance and his clear vision for Lagos, Hamzat is poised to make a significant impact in the state. As he gears up for the election, his determination to serve a full term will be put to the test. Will he succeed in delivering on his promises, or will the challenges of governance prove too great for him to overcome?Obafemi Hamzat is in Lagos politics.