By Ariyo Zainab
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has withdrawn from the 2027 Lagos State governorship race, pledging support for the party’s emerging consensus around Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.
Jandor announced his decision in a statement on Tuesday, citing the need to prioritise party unity and align with the direction of party leadership ahead of the primaries.
The former aspirant said his earlier move to obtain nomination and expression of interest forms was driven by consultations and a desire to contribute to the development of the state, but noted that evolving political realities within the party necessitated a course change.
According to him, the endorsement of Hamzat by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other party leaders played a significant role in his decision to step down from the race.
“Leadership demands the capacity to make difficult decisions that prioritise collective interest above personal ambition,” he said, adding that his withdrawal was based on discipline and respect for party cohesion.
Jandor reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and expressed support for the party’s internal processes, stressing the importance of unity in consolidating its political strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also called on members of the Lagos4Lagos Movement, a political group associated with his political activities, to remain calm and align with the party’s direction, noting that the movement’s objectives extend beyond individual ambition.
“This is a moment to consolidate, not to divide; to build, not to fracture,” he stated.
Political observers say the development may further shape the dynamics within the APC in Lagos, particularly as consultations and alignments intensify ahead of the governorship primaries.
Jandor’s withdrawal is seen as part of broader efforts within the ruling party to manage internal competition and maintain cohesion as the transition toward the next electoral cycle gathers momentum.
