Lagos APC Faces Internal Struggles Over Seyi Tinubu's Potential 2027 Governorship Bid

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its influential Governance Advisory Council (GAC) are reportedly experiencing internal tensions due to speculations surrounding Seyi Tinubu’s possible candidacy for the 2027 governorship election. Seyi Tinubu, the 39-year-old son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has garnered endorsements from various youth organizations and diaspora groups, fueling rumors about his political ambitions.

Despite not making an official declaration, insiders suggest that efforts to promote his candidacy are underway. Should he decide to run and win, Seyi would become the youngest governor in Lagos State’s history, surpassing Babatunde Fashola, who assumed office at 43 in 2007.

The GAC, a 30-member body established by President Tinubu in 1999, plays a significant role in determining political leadership within the state. The council is reportedly divided over the prospect of Seyi’s candidacy, with concerns about political dynasties and meritocracy coming to the forefront.

Critics highlight Seyi’s lack of political experience, noting his primary role as CEO of Loatsad Promomedia Ltd, an outdoor advertising company. Some party members fear that his candidacy could be perceived as nepotism, potentially alienating voters in a politically sophisticated and economically complex state like Lagos.

However, supporters argue that political dynasties are not uncommon globally, citing examples such as the Marcos family in the Philippines and the Bush family in the United States. They emphasize that Seyi, as a Nigerian citizen, has the constitutional right to seek public office and enjoys substantial support among the youth and digitally engaged electorate.

Reports indicate that Seyi is positioning loyalists for key roles in upcoming local government elections, raising concerns about undue influence in the electoral process. The APC’s loss of Lagos State to Peter Obi of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election is seen by some as a warning sign of diminishing political dominance, which could be exacerbated by perceptions of favoritism.

The issue of zoning also adds complexity to the situation. Lagos State is divided into five administrative districts: Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe. Historically, the governorship has been held by individuals from Lagos Island and Epe, leaving Ikorodu, Badagry, and Ikeja underrepresented. This has led to calls for the rotation of the governorship to these districts to promote fairness and equity.

During a recent meeting in Epe, the topic of Seyi Tinubu’s potential candidacy was reportedly discussed but set aside due to the absence of an official declaration. Meanwhile, a faction within the APC is said to be supporting Babajimi Benson, a House of Representatives member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, as a potential candidate.

The lack of clarity from President Tinubu regarding his son’s political ambitions is contributing to uncertainty within the party. Party stakeholders are reportedly seeking guidance to navigate the evolving political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.