The All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, has challenged Lagos residents to critically examine his development plans, leadership experience and professional pedigree as the race for the 2027 governorship election gathers momentum.
Hamzat made the appeal during his opening remarks at the 2026 Governorship Debate organised by the Debate Consortium, a partnership involving PUNCH Nigeria Limited, Channels Television, TVC, TheCable and Vanguard Newspaper.
Presenting himself as a candidate with a deep understanding of Lagos, its people and the demands of governance, Hamzat emphasised his experience and familiarity with the state’s development challenges.
He declared that his knowledge of Lagos goes beyond political promises, insisting that his understanding of the city, its residents and the responsibilities of government should form part of the assessment of his candidacy.
Addressing the audience, Hamzat said:
“Femi Hamzat knows the city, knows the people and knows the work.”
He urged Lagosians to approach the assessment of governorship candidates with the same seriousness they would apply when recruiting someone to manage their businesses or take responsibility for their families.
“Distinguished Lagosians, judge my plan like you want to hire anybody; judge my pedigree like you want to hire anybody who will manage your family. That is our commitment,” he stated.
The APC candidate’s remarks placed emphasis on leadership experience, credibility, policy direction and the ability to translate campaign promises into practical results.
His challenge also brings attention to an important aspect of democratic accountability: the responsibility of voters to examine not just what candidates promise, but also their previous records, qualifications, experience and proposed approaches to governance.
The 2026 Debate Consortium provides a platform for governorship contenders to present their positions on issues affecting Lagos, including transportation, housing, flooding, infrastructure, security, economic development and the rising cost of living.
These issues remain central to the concerns of millions of residents who depend on Lagos for their livelihoods and economic opportunities.
As the political conversation ahead of the 2027 governorship election continues, Hamzat’s message is clear: he wants Lagosians to assess his candidacy based on his proposed plans and leadership pedigree.
Ultimately, the debate offers voters an opportunity to scrutinise competing visions, demand specific commitments and examine how each candidate intends to address the challenges facing Africa’s largest commercial city.
For Lagosians, the task is to look beyond campaign rhetoric and carefully evaluate the policies, experience and practical commitments presented by all candidates.
