Akiolu endorses Hamzat, urges Lagosians to back him

The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has expressed strong confidence in the leadership abilities of Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, urging Lagos residents to support him and other public officials committed to delivering good governance.

The monarch made the remarks when Hamzat, accompanied by members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Iga Idugaran on Lagos Island on Wednesday.

Akiolu praised the deputy governor’s intelligence, diligence, and commitment to public service, describing his political trajectory as a reflection of merit, perseverance, and divine providence.

He revealed that he had known Hamzat for more than 14 years and had long regarded him as a leader with the capacity to serve Lagos at the highest level.

Recalling past conversations involving Hamzat’s late father, the monarch said discussions about the deputy governor’s leadership potential dated back to the early 2000s.

According to him, although previous opportunities did not materialise, Hamzat’s eventual rise in public service demonstrates that success unfolds according to God’s timing.

“I have known Quadri Obafemi Hamzat for over 14 years. Based on the intelligence and leadership qualities he displayed, we believed he had the potential to become governor. He is exceptionally intelligent and hardworking. Sometimes, things may not happen when we expect them to, but God has His own way of making things happen at the right time,” Akiolu said.

While commending Hamzat, the monarch urged political leaders to remain truthful, God-fearing, and focused on the welfare of the people.

He stressed that leadership should be driven by service rather than personal interests, adding that governments must prioritise policies that empower citizens, create opportunities, and promote self-reliance.

Akiolu also advocated initiatives that foster unity, sustainable development, and long-term prosperity for future generations.

On security, the traditional ruler reiterated his support for state and local government policing, arguing that decentralised policing could enhance security effectiveness if properly implemented.

He, however, noted that such a system must be supported with adequate funding, logistics, training, and operational resources to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

In his response, Hamzat described the visit as a reaffirmation of cultural heritage and political inclusiveness.

He said regular engagement with traditional institutions helps preserve Yoruba values, strengthen communal identity, and educate younger generations about their history and heritage.

The deputy governor also reassured Lagos residents of the state government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security, pledging that the administration would continue to take necessary steps to protect lives and property.

He urged residents to remain law-abiding and peaceful, assuring them that the government remains focused on sustaining stability while advancing the state’s economic and social development agenda.