Fresh indications have emerged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is leaning towards a consensus arrangement to select its governorship candidates in key South-West states ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Top among those tipped for the tickets are Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat; Ogun West senator, Olamilekan Adeola (popularly known as Yayi); and Oyo South senator, Sharafadeen Alli.
Party sources revealed that the trio’s emergence followed a high-level meeting between President Bola Tinubu and APC stakeholders from Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states in Lagos on Sunday night.
The meeting came on the sidelines of Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, where the President had earlier hosted Vice President Kashim Shettima and several governors. Discussions later shifted to political strategy and succession plans in the South-West.
According to insiders, the deliberations were extensive, with participants considering the popularity and political strength of aspirants across the three states.
“The choices of Hamzat, Yayi and Alli were reached after careful consultations and reflect the collective position of stakeholders,” a source familiar with the meeting disclosed.
The move aligns with the APC’s longstanding preference for consensus candidates, a strategy party leaders believe reduces internal disputes and strengthens electoral chances.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has already fixed January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections, and February 6 for governorship polls, with party primaries expected between April and May 2026.
While consensus appears to be gaining ground, party leaders acknowledged that not all aspirants are on board. Efforts are reportedly ongoing to negotiate “soft landings” for those who may step down.
In Lagos, Hamzat’s potential emergence is facing competition from several heavyweights, including Femi Gbajabiamila, former governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and others.
Meanwhile, in Ogun State, Adeola’s candidacy is said to be at odds with the preference of Governor Dapo Abiodun, who is reportedly backing another contender. Party elders, including Olusegun Osoba, are also said to hold differing views, highlighting internal divisions.
In Oyo, however, Alli appears to enjoy broader acceptance among stakeholders, including backing from influential figures like Rashidi Ladoja. Sources say he is currently viewed as the most unifying option within the party.
Discussions also touched on the chances of Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, whose popularity in Oyo State was reportedly questioned following past electoral performances and internal party divisions.
Similarly, other aspirants across the states are said to be lobbying hard, even as negotiations continue behind the scenes to ensure party unity.
While APC leaders defend consensus as a democratic and practical approach, critics warn it could amount to imposition if not genuinely agreed upon.
The debate has drawn reactions from political analysts and groups, who stress that true consensus must involve the voluntary agreement of all stakeholders to avoid deepening internal party rifts.
Party insiders say consultations are still ongoing and that no final decisions have been reached. More meetings are expected in the coming days to harmonise interests and secure buy-in from all aspirants.
With the APC national convention around the corner, the party faces the delicate task of balancing internal democracy with strategic consensus as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
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