The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has moved swiftly to distance itself from reports claiming that the Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Noheem Babatunde Adams, had been endorsed as a consensus candidate for Eti-Osa Constituency I ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development has stirred political conversations across the state, with party stakeholders warning against premature declarations that could disrupt internal processes and fuel unnecessary tension within the party ranks.
In a statement issued on behalf of the campaign team of Saheed Adesegun Bankole (popularly known as SAB), and signed by Jidda Saisu, the claim of endorsement was firmly rejected. The statement emphasized that the party had not sanctioned any such move, noting that the official process for selecting candidates had not even commenced.
“The attention of our campaign has been drawn to a publication suggesting that a consensus candidacy has already been agreed upon,” the statement read in part. “We wish to state clearly that the party has not approved any endorsement, and no such decision can be valid at this stage.”
At the center of the controversy is a letter reportedly dated March 23, 2026, which was said to have been submitted to the APC State Secretariat, indicating an endorsement of Adams. However, party insiders insist that the document does not reflect the official position of the APC and should not be interpreted as binding.
For many observers, the situation highlights the growing intensity of political maneuvering well ahead of the 2027 elections. Eti-Osa Constituency I, a politically significant area within Lagos, has long been a battleground for influential figures seeking to consolidate their presence in the state’s legislative structure.
While Adams remains a prominent figure within the Assembly, the suggestion that he has already secured consensus backing appears to have unsettled other aspirants and their supporters, who view the claim as an attempt to gain an early advantage.
Political analysts note that such developments are not uncommon in Nigerian politics, where early endorsements, real or perceived, are often used to shape narratives and test the strength of potential candidates.
However, party leaders are increasingly wary of the risks associated with these tactics.
A senior APC member in Lagos, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the situation as “premature and potentially divisive,” stressing that the party remains committed to a transparent and inclusive selection process.
“We cannot afford to create the impression that decisions have already been made behind closed doors,” the source said. “That would undermine confidence in the process and alienate party members.”
The SAB campaign team’s response also appears to signal a broader contest taking shape within the constituency.
By challenging the alleged endorsement, the group has effectively positioned itself as a key player in what is expected to become a highly competitive race.
Residents of Eti-Osa Constituency I are watching the unfolding developments with interest. For many, the priority remains effective representation rather than internal party disputes.
“We want leaders who will focus on development,” a local resident said. “All these early endorsements are distractions if they don’t translate into better governance.”
As the dust settles, the APC’s firm denial serves as a reminder that the road to 2027 is still long, and that the formal processes that will determine candidates are yet to begin.
For now, the message from the party is clear: no endorsements have been made, no consensus has been reached, and any claims suggesting otherwise should be treated with caution.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Lagos politics, where influence and ambition often intersect, the coming months are likely to reveal more about who truly holds the advantage, and who is merely testing the waters.
