APC primary race intensifies in Lagos

By Ariyo Zainab

The race for the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State is gathering momentum, with consultations intensifying and alliances shifting as the May 18 primaries draw closer.

What is unfolding within the party goes beyond a routine primary. It is increasingly seen as a contest of influence among key political blocs, with prominent figures such as Deputy Gov. Obafemi Hamzat, Sen. Tokunbo Abiru, and former Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode positioned at the centre of the race, each bringing a distinct political base and network.

Party insiders say much of the real activity is happening behind the scenes, where negotiations, endorsements, and quiet alignments are shaping the direction of the contest.

Within influential blocs like the Mandate Group, long considered a major force in Lagos APC politics, subtle divisions are beginning to emerge, raising questions about how unified the structure remains.

Analysts note that these internal shifts could prove decisive, as loyalties are tested and recalibrated in the lead-up to the primaries.

At the same time, developments at the national level are adding another layer to the political atmosphere. The National Assembly of Nigeria has resumed plenary after the Easter recess, bringing lawmakers back into an environment already shaped by pre-election calculations.

For many legislators, the return is not limited to legislative duties. It also signals a renewed phase of political engagement, with consultations expected to intensify across party lines as the primaries approach.

This overlap between governance and politics places party leaders in a delicate position, balancing internal competition while working to maintain unity and prevent divisions that could affect electoral prospects.

Observers say the credibility of the primaries will be crucial. A transparent and widely accepted process, they argue, will not only determine candidates but also strengthen party cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.

Within the APC, the primaries are no longer just about candidate selection. They are shaping up as the opening phase of a broader political contest that could define the party’s strength in the coming electoral cycle.