Battle for Lagos 2027: Between Tokunbo Abiru, Akinwumi Ambode, Who Will Succeed Sanwo-Olu?

The race for the Lagos State governorship in 2027 is poised to be one of the most gripping political contests in recent memory, as two formidable figures—Tokunbo Abiru, a financial titan turned politician, and Akinwunmi Ambode, the once-revered former governor—vie for the mantle of leadership. Amid the clamor, one poser rings loudly in political circles: Between Tokunbo Abiru and Akinwunmi Ambode, who is best suited to succeed Babajide Sanwo-Olu? 

Highly placed sources within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) suggest that the eventual flagbearer will need the blessing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose shadow looms large over Lagos politics. But as the tide of public opinion swells, it is clear that this contest transcends party politics—it is a battle for the soul of Lagos.

The drumbeats of support for Akinwunmi Ambode’s return to Alausa echo across Lagos. Residents, civic groups, and political stakeholders are rallying behind the man they believe was unjustly denied a second term in 2019. The Lagos Residents Association (LRA), a prominent civic group, has openly called on the APC to grant Ambode the ticket, describing his previous tenure as transformative.

“Ambode’s achievements in infrastructure, human capital development, and total transformation of Lagos are undeniable,” said Dr. Olumuyiwa Adesanmi, President General of the LRA. “He positively impacted the lives of residents, and we believe he deserves the opportunity to complete the good work he started.”

Ambode’s supporters argue that the controversial APC primary election that led to his 2019 ousting was riddled with intrigue, leaving Lagosians with a sense of unfinished business. The LRA’s statement reflects this sentiment: “The events that denied Ambode a second term were questionable. We urge him to step forward and contest in 2027.”

Though Ambode has yet to officially declare his candidacy, the groundswell of support from civic groups and residents may leave him little choice. The LRA has even pledged to purchase his nomination and expression of interest forms, a move that underscores the depth of their commitment.

While Ambode basks in nostalgia-fueled support, Tokunbo Abiru is carving a new path to the Lagos governorship. A banker of impeccable pedigree and a consummate professional, Abiru’s foray into politics has been marked by strategic brilliance and undeniable success.

Since his entry into public service as Lagos State Commissioner for Finance in 2011, Abiru has distinguished himself as a trailblazer. During his tenure, Lagos successfully floated an N80 billion bond that drew international accolades. His expertise in financial management later saw him rescue Skye Bank from the brink of collapse, transforming it into Polaris Bank.

Abiru’s transition to politics came in 2020 after the death of Senator Adebayo Osinowo. Backed by Tinubu, he contested and won the Lagos East senatorial bye-election, a victory that cemented his position as a rising star in the APC. Despite losing out on the finance ministerial appointment to Wale Edun earlier this year, Abiru remains a frontrunner for the Lagos governorship.

Critics who dismiss Abiru as a mere beneficiary of Tinubu’s influence ignore his impressive track record. His tenure in the Senate has been marked by impactful legislation and initiatives that have directly benefited his constituents. “The world offers glittering prizes only to those with stout hearts and sharp swords,” a political pundit remarked, alluding to Abiru’s resilience and ambition.

In the APC’s tightly knit hierarchy, the imprimatur of Bola Ahmed Tinubu often determines the outcome of major political contests. As the architect of modern Lagos, Tinubu’s endorsement carries weight far beyond the party’s structure. Both Abiru and Ambode are keenly aware of this, and their paths to the governorship may hinge on securing his favor.