APC Moves Toward Consensus Candidates for 2027 as Key Names Emerge in South-West
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is intensifying moves to adopt a consensus approach in selecting its governorship candidates for the 2027 elections across the South-West, with prominent names already gaining traction among party stakeholders.
In Lagos State, the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, is said to be the leading choice, while Olamilekan Adeola is being considered for Ogun State and Sharafadeen Alli for Oyo State.
The emerging preferences were reportedly discussed during a high-level meeting between South-West APC stakeholders and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos on Sunday night. The meeting followed earlier engagements held after Eid-el-Fitr celebrations at the President’s residence, where broader political strategies were also examined.
Sources familiar with the deliberations revealed that the discussions focused on preparations for the 2027 general elections, particularly candidate selection. The suggested names were said to have emerged after extensive consultations, taking into account political balance, stakeholder interests, and the popularity of aspirants within their states.
Among those present at the meeting were Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele; and governors including Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Dapo Abiodun, and Biodun Oyebanji. It was also gathered that the recommendations were built on outcomes from an earlier consultative meeting held in Abuja.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections, while governorship and State Assembly polls are scheduled for February 6, 2027. In line with the Electoral Act 2026, political parties are expected to conduct their primaries between April and May 2026.
Despite the apparent alignment on a consensus strategy, there are indications of differing views within the party. In Ogun State, the reported support for Adeola appears to contrast with the preference of Governor Abiodun, pointing to possible internal disagreements that may require reconciliation.
Sources disclosed that Governor Abiodun is backing Shaibu Afolabi Salisu, citing his contributions to the governor’s 2019 election victory. However, former governor Olusegun Osoba is said not to share this position.
Meanwhile, former Governor Ibikunle Amosun is reportedly eyeing a return to the Senate in 2027, a move that could reshape the political calculations in the state. Efforts are said to be ongoing within the party to manage competing interests and maintain unity ahead of the elections.
