An aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Azeez Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has announced his withdrawal from the 2027 Lagos State gubernatorial race.

Jandor made the announcement yesterday, a few days after procuring forms for the gubernatorial election.

In a statement, Jandor said that he took the step out of conviction, consultation, and a genuine desire to contribute to the progress of the state, as well as prioritising collective interest above personal ambition.

He also stated that his decision followed the endorsement of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Kadiri Hamzat, by President Bola Tinubu and APC leaders in Lagos.

According to Jandor, the decision is not borne out of weakness or a lack of capacity, but out of strength, discipline, and a deep respect for the party’s cohesion and unity.

RELATEDLY, former Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, has congratulated Hamzat on his emergence as the consensus governorship candidate of the APC ahead of the 2027 election.

In a statement yesterday, Ambode described the development as a reflection of unity and internal consultation within the party.

He said Hamzat’s emergence was well deserved, citing his long-standing loyalty and commitment to the APC.

The former governor expressed confidence in Hamzat’s ability to lead Lagos State, noting that his experience in government would be beneficial if elected.

Ambode also reaffirmed his support for the re-election of Tinubu, linking Nigeria’s economic progress to the President’s continued leadership.

He, however, stated that members of the APC in the state are prepared to mobilise support for the party in future elections.