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Lagos APC, GAC in dilemma over Seyi Tinubu’s rumoured 2027 guber ambition

Rumors that Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, may run for governor of Lagos State in 2027 are causing a stir in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos. Some members of the party, especially the influential Governance Advisory Council (GAC), are unsure how to respond.

At 39 years old, Seyi Tinubu is being supported by youth groups and Nigerians living abroad, who see him as a young and fresh leader for Lagos. Although he hasn’t officially announced his plans, many believe he is already working behind the scenes to prepare for a run.

If he becomes governor, he would be the youngest ever in Lagos, beating the current record set by Babatunde Fashola, who became governor at 43.

But not everyone is happy about this. The GAC, a powerful group of 30 top APC leaders, is divided. Some feel that putting forward Seyi, who has never held public office, would be unfair and could hurt the party’s chances—especially since Lagos is a large and complex state with over 20 million people.

Critics say it would look like political favoritism or even a move toward a political dynasty, with father and son both in major offices. One party member even called it “political arrogance” and warned it could make voters feel alienated.

Supporters, however, argue that Seyi has the right to run like any other Nigerian. They point to political families in Nigeria and around the world, like the Sarakis in Kwara State or the Bush family in the U.S., as examples.

At the same time, there are worries about fairness and zoning. Lagos is made up of five zones: Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe. The last few governors all came from either Epe or Lagos Island. Some APC members believe it’s time to give other areas, like Ikorodu or Badagry, a chance.

Adding to the tension, some reports say Seyi’s supporters are trying to get his loyalists into key positions in the upcoming local elections. This has sparked concern among voters, who fear interference in the democratic process.

The situation is further complicated by President Tinubu’s loss of Lagos State to the opposition during the 2023 presidential election—a warning sign for the APC in its traditional stronghold.

Another name being quietly supported within the party is Babajimi Benson, a federal lawmaker from Ikorodu, as a possible alternative to Seyi.

Many APC members are now waiting for a clear statement from President Tinubu. His silence is causing confusion, and some say the party won’t know how to move forward until he speaks on the matter.

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