The race for the Alausa Roundhouse has taken an unprecedented turn as Hon. James Faleke, a powerhouse within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a primary ally of President Bola Tinubu, has openly declared his support for Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2027.

​The declaration, made via Faleke’s official X account on Friday, has sent shockwaves through the ruling party’s hierarchy. Representing the Ikeja Federal Constituency, Faleke did not just offer a simple endorsement but outlined a strategic eight-year vision, urging party loyalists to back Hamzat for a tenure spanning from 2027 to 2035.

​The move is considered a major political “stunner” as it comes just weeks before the APC’s anticipated internal primaries. By throwing his significant weight behind Hamzat, Faleke—who is widely regarded as a key strategist within the Tinubu political dynasty—has effectively set the pace for the party’s transition plans in Nigeria’s economic hub.

​Faleke described Hamzat as the most suitable candidate to carry forward the current administration’s blueprint. The Deputy Governor, a seasoned technocrat with a long history of service in Lagos, is now positioned as a frontrunner in a race that includes other high-profile potential aspirants like Senator Tokunbo Abiru and Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.

​In his statement, Faleke emphasized the need for total unity within the Ikeja Federal Constituency and the wider Lagos APC structure. The appeal is seen as a tactical move to consolidate support early and prevent internal friction as the party prepares for its congresses and primary elections next month.

​With this endorsement from a core Tinubu loyalist, the “Hamzat for Governor” campaign has gained significant momentum, fundamentally altering the political calculus for 2027 and forcing other interest groups within the APC to re-evaluate their strategies.