By Ola Kay
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has revealed the pivotal role played by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, in his emergence as governor in 2019.
He made the disclosure during an event in Lagos and stated how his deputy Hamzat voluntarily stepped aside for him during the competitive 2018 All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primaries that led to his succeeding former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, who did only one term in the state despite his hyped good performance.
The governor appreciated his deputy who was one of the biggest contenders for the Lagos governorship ticket at the time and had massive support across the state, acknowledging that he chose to sacrifice his ambition in the interest of the party.
Sanwo-olu said: “If not for Hamzat, I wouldn’t be governor today.”
He recalled that Hamzat not only stepped aside for him to emerge but also mobilised his own supporters to work for his candidacy, a move that gave him victory in the primary and eventually at the general elections.
He emphasized that his deputy has remained loyal and a man of uncommon humility, especially at a time those running for similar position would not have made such a sacrifice.
The Lagos State governor concluded by noting that Hamzat remains a dependable ally, stating “He (Hamzat) has been with me through thick and thin. He is loyal and very humble. What he did for me in 2018, I will never forget.”
Recall that the Lagos deputy governor had won his party primary and looks set to take over from his principal, barring any unforseen challenges.
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