Fresh political moves within the All Progressives Congress suggest the party is leaning toward adopting consensus candidates in key South-West states as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
Party insiders revealed that Obafemi Hamzat is being strongly considered for the Lagos governorship ticket, while Olamilekan Adeola (popularly known as Yayi) and Sharafadeen Alli are emerging as preferred choices for Ogun and Oyo states respectively.
These indications reportedly followed high-level consultations with President Bola Tinubu during a closed-door meeting in Lagos attended by top party stakeholders and government officials.
The gathering, which took place alongside Sallah celebrations, included discussions on strategy, candidate selection, and party unity ahead of the elections. According to sources, the recommendations were based on popularity, political structure, and perceived electability in each state.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has already scheduled the 2027 general elections, with party primaries expected to hold between April and May 2026. The electoral framework allows parties to choose candidates through consensus or direct primaries.
Within the APC, consensus arrangements are often preferred to reduce internal conflicts and strengthen cohesion. However, negotiations are ongoing to manage competing interests and offer alternative positions to aspirants who may step down.
In Lagos, several political heavyweights are still eyeing the ticket, including Femi Gbajabiamila and Akinwunmi Ambode, among others, making the race highly competitive despite Hamzat’s growing support.
In Ogun, the emergence of Adeola is said to differ from the preference of Governor Dapo Abiodun, highlighting internal negotiations within the party. Meanwhile, political alignments involving former leaders are expected to influence final decisions.
For Oyo, Alli appears to enjoy broader acceptance among party factions, although concerns remain over the chances of other aspirants, including Bayo Adelabu, whose political strength has been questioned by some stakeholders.
Sources added that discussions also touched on possible compensations, such as alternative positions, to maintain unity within the party and avoid post-primary disputes.
Despite the momentum toward consensus, party officials insist that aspirants still retain the right to contest through primaries if disagreements arise. Analysts, however, warn that forced consensus could trigger internal divisions if not handled carefully.
As consultations continue nationwide, the APC is expected to finalize its approach at its upcoming national convention in Abuja, where key decisions on structure and electoral strategy will be made.
