The reported governorship ambition of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has unsettled key political figures in Lagos State, sparking tension and confusion among prominent aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.
Those allegedly feeling the heat include Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Principal Staff Secretary Hakeem Muri-Okunola (HMO), and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.
Insiders reveal that the trio, all considered front-runners for the Lagos governorship ticket, are growing increasingly concerned over the potential endorsement of Seyi Tinubu by the President, which could derail their ambitions.
While Gbajabiamila and Muri-Okunola are seen as loyal allies of the President, the Speaker, Obasa, is reportedly the most desperate to secure the coveted position. Sources allege Obasa, who is under investigation by the United States Department of Justice for money laundering, is prepared to go to extreme lengths to eliminate any competition.
Those close to Obasa recall allegations of threats against the late Senator Adebayo Osinowo, popularly known as “Pepperito,” who died months after reportedly clashing with the Lagos Speaker. These claims have fueled speculation about the lengths to which Obasa might go to pursue his ambitions.
Meanwhile, Gbajabiamila, a key figure in Lagos politics, is said to feel entitled to the governorship ticket given his loyalty and stature. Before Seyi Tinubu’s emergence, sources say President Tinubu was leaning toward supporting Hakeem Muri-Okunola, known for his strong administrative credentials and ties to the Tinubu political dynasty.
Seyi Tinubu’s growing interest in the Lagos governorship race has complicated the political dynamics in the state. While his pathway to securing victory remains uncertain, his foray into the race has intensified competition and left aspirants scrambling to reassess their strategies.
Political observers suggest that Seyi Tinubu’s potential candidacy, coupled with the backing of the Tinubu family’s political influence, may disrupt existing power alignments within Lagos politics, further heating up the race to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2027.
