‘This is not the Tinubu we knew as Lagos Governor’ — Buhari’s ex-minister, Dalung

Lagos State Deputy Governor and APC gubernatorial candidate for 2027, Obafemi Hamzat, has expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu will have a higher likelihood of winning re-election in 2027 compared to his performance in the 2023 presidential election. During an appearance on TVC News’ Journalists’ Hangout, Hamzat explained that the political landscape has evolved since 2023, enabling Nigerians to evaluate Tinubu's performance based on his actions since taking office.

He argued that the concerns surrounding religion and regional identity, which impacted Tinubu's chances in 2023, have diminished as Nigerians have come to appreciate his approach to appointments and governance.

Hamzat pointed out that in 2023, the president's Muslim faith and his status as a southern candidate raised concerns in predominantly Christian regions, such as the South-South and South-East. He emphasized that in the South, a Muslim president would be a minority, making it challenging to appeal to minorities. However, Hamzat contended that Tinubu's conduct in office has demonstrated that neither religion nor ethnicity influences his selection of government officials or the direction of his administration.

He highlighted that the president carefully chooses "credible, intelligent individuals" for government positions, regardless of their ethnicity or religion.

The deputy governor provided examples of Tinubu's appointments, including those of the Minister of Finance and the Governor of the Central Bank, which faced criticism due to the religious identities of the individuals involved. Hamzat noted that the situation leading up to 2027 is different because Tinubu will be seeking re-election with a documented record of his administration's achievements to defend.

He also referenced religious diversity in Lagos, emphasizing that although he is a Muslim, he actively participates in Christian gatherings, reflecting the city's religious harmony.

Furthermore, Hamzat cited the activities of Lagos State's Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), where Christian and Muslim leaders collaborate to address state-level issues. He recounted a past disagreement over an autopsy-related policy, where the Muslim community initially opposed the measure due to their preference for prompt burial.

Through dialogue facilitated by NIREC, comprising representatives from both the Muslim and Christian communities, the issue was resolved, demonstrating the inclusive approach championed by the Tinubu administration.

Hamzat concluded by asserting that the inclusive principles demonstrated in Lagos should be replicated nationwide, and he is confident that these factors will significantly bolster Tinubu's electoral prospects in 2027, particularly in Lagos State, where he is a candidate. "So I think the chances are far, far, far better," he stated.