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.

Sources close to the presidency suggest that Tinubu views both men as capable leaders, though whispers of his preference for Abiru have begun to circulate. However, Tinubu’s decision will likely be informed by more than personal loyalty; it will also depend on who can best consolidate the APC’s base and steer Lagos through its next phase of development.

While Ambode and Abiru represent different eras and approaches to governance, their aspirations for Lagos are rooted in a shared commitment to progress. Ambode’s legacy is etched in the grand infrastructure projects of his tenure, from the rejuvenation of the Oshodi transport hub to the construction of new bridges and roads. His supporters argue that he is best positioned to complete the work he started.

On the other hand, Abiru’s vision for Lagos is grounded in fiscal prudence and economic innovation. As a former banker, he is keenly attuned to the challenges of managing a megacity’s finances. His supporters believe his expertise in financial management and governance makes him the ideal candidate to lead Lagos into a new era of economic prosperity.

As the 2027 gubernatorial election draws closer, Lagosians are faced with a profound choice: Do they restore Ambode, the man of unfinished projects and undeniable charisma? Or do they embrace Abiru, the financial genius with a vision for the future? The stakes could not be higher for Nigeria’s commercial capital, a city that serves as both the engine of the nation’s economy and a symbol of its potential.

In the words of a political observer, “This is not just a contest between two men; it is a referendum on Lagos’ future. The winner will inherit both the challenges and opportunities of leading Africa’s largest city.”

The journey to 2027 promises to be a riveting spectacle, as Abiru and Ambode navigate the treacherous waters of Lagos politics. But one thing is certain: whoever emerges as the APC flagbearer will have to prove not only their mettle but also their ability to unite a city that thrives on its diversity and dynamism.

For now, Lagosians watch and wait, their hopes and dreams suspended between the brilliance of Abiru’s future and the nostalgia of Ambode’s past. In this high-stakes duel, the race for Lagos has just begun.