The Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Tajudeen Olusi, has addressed the controversy surrounding a remark that described Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, as the “incoming governor” ahead of the 2027 elections.
The comment, which stirred reactions among political observers, emerged during the General Assembly of Indigenous Associations in Lagos State held at the MUSON Centre in Onikan. The event was organised by the IBILE Eko Summit Foundation.
Clarifying the situation in an interview with Daily Independent, Olusi explained that he did not originate the statement. He noted that the description was first made by a traditional ruler from Badagry, who spoke in both Egun and English during the gathering. According to Olusi, the phrase was later repeated and gained wider attention.
He criticised the way the remark was interpreted in some media reports and on social platforms, arguing that the full context of the event was ignored. Olusi stressed that the word “incoming” should not be taken as a formal endorsement or confirmation of political succession.
Rather, he explained, the term simply reflects an aspiration, suggesting someone working towards a goal, not someone already chosen for office.
The statement has fueled political discussions in Lagos, with some suggesting it signals support for Hamzat as a potential successor to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. However, Olusi insisted that such interpretations are misplaced and urged the public to consider the broader context before drawing conclusions.