In a clear signal that the race for the next governorship of Lagos State is already taking shape, Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat on Tuesday paid a strategic consultation visit to Chief Rabiu Adio Oluwa, a revered member of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) and the apex leader of the Badagry Division.
The high-profile meeting, held at Chief Oluwa’s residence in Ajegunle, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, was described by insiders as more than a mere courtesy call. Political observers note that the visit is part of a broader, calculated move to solidify support from the influential Badagry bloc, a crucial voting constituency in Lagos’ political arithmetic.
Dr. Hamzat, who arrived amid a rousing welcome from a large crowd of supporters and community leaders, was received with traditional drums and cheers. The atmosphere was thick with political anticipation as the Deputy Governor proceeded into a closed-door session with Chief Oluwa and other leaders of the division.
Emerging from the private talks, Dr. Hamzat addressed the gathering with a tone of reverence and clarity. He formally revealed his intention to run for the governorship, noting that the aspiration, though yet to be publicly declared, had already been “sealed” by political understanding and divine direction. He pleaded for the support of Chief Oluwa and the entire Badagry Division.
I have come to seek the blessings of our fathers. Chief Rabiu Adio Oluwa is not just a leader; he is an institution. His wisdom has shaped this division and this state. I cannot embark on this journey without his hand of blessing,” Dr. Hamzat said. “I plead with him and all of you to support this aspiration, which is for the continued progress of Lagos.”
Chief Oluwa, known for his quiet but decisive political influence, welcomed the Deputy Governor warmly and offered words of encouragement. While remaining non-committal publicly, sources close to the GAC leader revealed that he was impressed by the Deputy Governor’s respect for hierarchy and his detailed vision for the state’s future.
The event also featured a strong show of support from the local government machinery. Hon. Akindipe Olu Olamilekan, the Executive Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun LGA, addressed the press with palpable enthusiasm. He lauded Dr. Hamzat’s political acumen and administrative capacity, declaring that the Deputy Governor’s experience puts him in a unique position to lead.
Dr. Obafemi Hamzat has a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of our state’s political dynamics. That is not in doubt,” Hon. Akindipe said. “With his leadership, Lagos will not only be the best state in Nigeria but can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with California or London — economically, infrastructurally, and politically. His vision is global, and his execution is local. He should count on me for all the necessary and needed support.
The chairman’s endorsement is significant, given Ajeromi-Ifelodun’s dense population and strategic importance within the Badagry Division.
Political analysts see Tuesday’s consultation as a masterstroke. By securing the audience of a GAC heavyweight and the local government chairman before any formal declaration, Dr. Hamzat is building a firewall of support from the grassroots upward.
