Samuel Ajose, a governorship aspirant, has stepped down from the race ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election, declaring his support for the incumbent Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.
Ajose announced his decision on Tuesday, admitting it was a difficult choice but one made in the interest of the party and broader political stability within the Lagos State chapter of the APC.
“I know it’s a very tough decision. I didn’t sleep overnight either; I struggled with it. But when I woke up this morning, I had my peace,” he said.
He added that his decision followed careful reflection on what would best serve party members and stakeholders, ensuring the collective needs of his supporters would still be prioritized within the unified front.
Formally declaring his withdrawal, Ajose said, “In the interest of the party, I, Samuel Ajose, have decided to step aside. I will support Dr. Hamzat, and we are going to be an active part of the campaign, taking up an important position within his team.”
Ajose’s withdrawal comes weeks after the former Lagos Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, also defected to the ruling party and endorsed Hamzat.
Jandor noted that his decision was informed by the endorsement of Hamzat by President Bola Tinubu and key governance advisory leaders within the Lagos State APC structure.