The race for the 2027 gubernatorial election in Lagos State is generating significant debate among politicians and particularly Lagosians, many of whom feel that the current ruling party is disconnected from the populace. It is widely known that numerous residents are disgruntled, especially as the government continues to demolish houses throughout the state, leaving thousands homeless.
The former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, who served as the Governor of Lagos State from 2015 to 2019, is highly tipped to return for a 2nd term. Supporters cite several reasons for his potential return to office in the 2027 gubernatorial election, including his proven track record and undying love across the state.
Ambode’s initial failure to secure a second-term nomination within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2018 was reportedly due to a fallout with party leaders, including Bola Ahmed Tinubu. At that time, accusations against him included “arrogance and neglect” of party members. Recent reports indicate that Ambode remains an active member of the APC and has publicly reaffirmed his loyalty and support for President Tinubu. While he has denied rumors of defecting to other parties, he has yet to officially announce his intentions regarding a run for governor in 2027 but there are signs he could come back. Nonetheless, his support base continues to mobilize for his potential re-election bid.
Several groups on Facebook, including one called “Ambode Worldwide Fans,” have emerged, boasting over 45,000 followers and engaging in robust campaigns for the former governor’s return.
Why should former Governor Ambode be considered for a second term?
Just a few weeks ago, during the demolition of hundreds of houses in Oworonshoki, some core APC party members inspected the destroyed properties and expressed their dissatisfaction with the current government’s actions. Many voiced concerns for the APC’s chances in the upcoming gubernatorial election due to the conduct of the current administration. Here are their concerns:
Thousands of Lagosians, particularly loyal members of the APC, have expressed dissatisfaction with the current government. Many residents living in the Lekki-Epe axis have reported land encroachments due to the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project. They claim that hundreds of them were not compensated, and even those who were considered for compensation did not receive adequate compensation.
The ongoing demolitions across the state have also become a significant topic among ordinary citizens. This situation is likely to affect the voting preferences of Lagosians in the upcoming election, as it has notably impacted the core indigenes who have traditionally supported the APC.
Party members believe that the best way to address this issue is to nominate former governor Akinwunmi Ambode, as many people still hold him in high regard. The Igbo community in Lagos prefers Ambode over any other candidate, with a significant group representing them expressing support for his second term. They cite his administration’s visible infrastructure development and inclusive approach to governance.
In fact, during the 2018 controversy regarding his second term bid, a group called “Igbo Vision” endorsed Ambode for re-election, which resonated throughout the state. Recently, a popular campaign group known as the Ambode Comeback Crusaders has urged the APC and stakeholders in the state to seriously consider Ambode as the gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 elections.
In an open letter dated September 28, addressed to the APC National Chairman and the Lagos State Chairman, the group’s convener, Abiodun Fashola, described Ambode as a proven leader whose first term in office from 2015 to 2019 exemplified strong leadership in infrastructure, public transportation, and healthcare. The letter argued that Ambode’s financial expertise positioned Lagos as a leading economic hub, while his inclusive governance approach portrayed him as “a leader who listens to stakeholders and the populace.”
“As you deliberate on candidates for the upcoming elections, I urge you to consider the broader implications of Ambode’s second term. His proven track record and vision for the future align seamlessly with APC’s commitment to progress and development,” the letter stated in part.
Another group is advocating for the return of former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, claiming that his reinstatement would “propel Lagos into a new era of prosperity and innovation” while enhancing the All Progressives Congress (APC) image as a progressive party.
The letter supporting Ambode was also sent to President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila, Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and other key stakeholders in the state.
Ambode, a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, succeeded Babatunde Fashola as governor in 2015 but was denied a second-term ticket in 2019 after losing the APC primary to Sanwo-Olu.
During his first term, Ambode was well-liked by many residents of Lagos. The Igbo community, which is significant in the state, particularly favored him. Many members of this community have expressed that they would gladly vote for him if he were on the ballot. They believe he had a well-thought-out plan for the Igbo population while in office.
The Igbo community claims to have over 1 million votes in Lagos and asserts that they can influence who becomes the next governor. Among the candidates for the 2027 gubernatorial election, a majority of Igbo voters in Lagos prefer Ambode, and they are vocal about this preference. This support is one reason why the leadership of the APC is considering his return.
Another reason many Lagosians want Ambode back is due to his focus on infrastructure development during his tenure. His administration was recognized for various infrastructural projects, including the transformation of the Oshodi district with new bus terminals and the modernization of areas like Epe. This has greatly impacted many business in Lagos today and this has also served as a testament to what he is capable of if given another chance.
Former Governor Ambode has also been praised for his economic management. Labeled a “seasoned career accountant,” his supporters view his “prudent financial management” skills as a valuable asset to the state’s economy. Under his leadership, Lagos State reportedly saw an increase in its average monthly internally generated revenue.
Experience and vision are additional factors in his favor; his time away from office may have provided him with the opportunity for reflection, enabling him to develop a renewed vision for building on previous successes and navigating the complex political landscape.
Some political commentators and support groups see his potential return as a call for continuity and excellence, aiming to build upon the achievements of the current administration to elevate Lagos further.
When City People spoke with some Lagosians, several mentioned their desire for Ambode’s return, particularly due to the current traffic challenges facing the city. He was known for resolving the daily traffic jams that plagued Lagos, creating new motor parks where vehicles could stop and pick up passengers without obstructing traffic. This initiative effectively addressed the traffic issues on the Third Mainland Bridge and improved the situation across the state.
–Isaac Abimbade
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