Reports of a possible resignation by Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have stirred speculation over a political transition that could see Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat assume office ahead of 2027.
Lagos State may be headed for a major political shake-up following reports that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been asked to resign on health grounds, a development that could pave the way for Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat to take over and complete the administration’s tenure. Sources within the presidency said President Bola Tinubu and key figures in his inner circle were dissatisfied with the current leadership in the state and had initiated a transition plan. “The Presidency, President Bola Tinubu and key figures in his inner circle are reportedly dissatisfied with the current leadership in Lagos and have moved to initiate a transition plan,” a top source in the Presidency said.
According to the sources, the arrangement would see Hamzat assume office if the plan is carried through, while also positioning him as a potential frontrunner for a fresh mandate in the 2027 governorship election. “The emerging arrangement would see Sanwo-Olu resign, paving the way for his deputy to assume office and complete the remainder of the tenure,” the source added. Although no official statement has been issued by the presidency or the Lagos State Government, the development has heightened speculation over possible political realignments in the state, widely regarded as Tinubu’s strategic political base.
The reported move comes amid claims of rising tensions within party circles, with Sanwo-Olu allegedly facing accusations of insubordination and attempts to build independent political structures seen as challenging Tinubu’s influence. Observers say if implemented, the transition would mark one of the most significant leadership shifts in Lagos in recent years, with implications for governance, party dynamics and the political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections. The speculation has further underscored intensifying permutations within the ruling political establishment.
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