Rufai Oseni Hamzat 2027 warning as Arise TV anchor cautions that Tinubu’s support remains key in Lagos governorship ambition
Arise Television “Morning Show” anchor Rufai Oseni has cautioned Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat over his 2027 governorship ambition, stating that ultimate political influence in Lagos remains firmly tied to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
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Rufai Oseni made the remarks on Monday during a live programme on Arise Television, while reacting to recent political developments in Lagos State, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s endorsement of his deputy as a preferred successor.
The endorsement reportedly followed a closed-door meeting at Lagos House, Marina, where Obafemi Hamzat formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election before members of the State Executive Council and key All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders.
Despite the backing from within the state political structure, Rufai Oseni stressed that endorsements at that level may not guarantee electoral success without the approval of President Bola Tinubu, who remains the dominant figure in Lagos politics.
According to him, historical patterns in Lagos political succession suggest that key decisions ultimately align with Tinubu’s position, making presidential support a decisive factor in any governorship ambition.
Rufai Oseni referenced past political events in the state, including the tenure and exit of former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and leadership changes within the Lagos State House of Assembly involving Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, as examples of how political outcomes can shift rapidly.
He warned that aspirants should remain cautious, noting that public endorsements do not always reflect final political outcomes.
Rufai Oseni said Hamzat “should not sleep with his two eyes closed,” stressing that Lagos politics has consistently revolved around Tinubu’s influence, widely known as “Jagaban.”
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The comments have added further attention to the emerging 2027 governorship race in Lagos, where political alignments are expected to intensify in the coming months.
