As the 2027 governorship election in Lagos State approaches, there is growing support for the return of Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, the former governor of the state. Residents, under the aegis of the Lagos Residents Association (LRA), have called on the All Progressives Congress (APC) to give Ambode the opportunity to complete the transformative work he began during his first tenure as governor from 2015 to 2019.
In a recent statement by the President General of the LRA, Dr. Olumuyiwa Adesanmi, residents emphasized that Ambode has the Midas touch needed to drive further development in Lagos. They argued that the former governor’s leadership was key to many of the significant changes in the state, and that his vision for Lagos was far from complete.
Ambode's tenure saw substantial improvements in infrastructure, human capital development, and the modernization of key sectors in Lagos. From road networks to the development of transport systems like the Blue Line of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit, Ambode’s legacy remains visible across the city. It is these accomplishments that residents believe position him as the best candidate to continue shaping the future of Lagos.
Ambode’s bid for a second term in 2019 ended in controversy when he lost the APC primary election under suspicious circumstances. The reasons behind his defeat remain a topic of debate, with many questioning whether it was based on party dynamics or his actual performance. Despite the setback, Ambode left office with a strong following among Lagos residents who appreciated the strides he made during his tenure.
According to Dr. Adesanmi, Ambode’s performance in office should have secured him a second term, and the way he lost his ticket was more about politics than governance. The LRA president asserted that it is Ambode's constitutional right to seek a second term, and urged the Lagos APC to reconsider its position and allow him to contest again in 2027.
Ambode’s supporters within Lagos have continued to sing his praises, particularly for the tangible changes he implemented during his time as governor. The LRA pointed out that the former governor’s legacy is still evident in many of the projects he initiated, from the expansion of roads to improvements in healthcare and education.
The legacy he left behind, both in human capital development, infrastructure, and the total transformation of Lagos, is still there for all to see,said Adesanmi. We residents of the state are solidly behind him and calling him to come back and complete what he has started in our dear state.
The association even went as far as pledging to purchase the nomination and expression of interest forms for Ambode, signaling their serious commitment to ensuring his candidacy in 2027.
As Lagos moves toward the 2027 election, the race to succeed the incumbent governor, Babajide Sanwo Olu, whose second term ends in 2027, is heating up. While several candidates are expected to vie for the governorship seat, Ambode’s supporters are keen to see him return to power, believing that he is the leader who can take Lagos to even greater heights.
The call for Ambode’s return is not just a political issue but also a reflection of the deep admiration many Lagosians have for his leadership. His supporters argue that the city has made strides in urban development and public services, and they believe that he is the best person to continue these efforts.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, the growing support for Akinwumi Ambode reflects a desire among many Lagosians for leadership continuity and progress. Whether or not he will take the plunge and contest the election remains to be seen, but the call from residents is clear Ambode has unfinished business in Lagos, and they want him to return and complete the job.
With the backing of residents and an organized campaign to support his candidacy, Ambode's potential return to the Lagos government could bring renewed hope for those who believe in his transformative vision for the state. For now, all eyes will be on the APC as the 2027 race begins to take shape.