The media office of Rt Hon James Abiodun Faleke has strongly defended his decision to back a candidate in the Lagos APC gubernatorial primaries, following criticism from some quarters.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the office stressed that Faleke, like every party member, has the inalienable right to freely associate and support any aspirant of his choice, describing this as a fundamental pillar of internal democracy.
The backlash was dismissed as “unfortunate and misleading,” with the statement suggesting it stems from personal disappointment rather than genuine concerns about party ethics. It noted that such reactions would likely not have arisen if Faleke had supported the critics’ preferred candidates.
As coordinator of the influential Justice Forum in Lagos, Faleke was said to be carrying out his responsibility of mobilizing party faithful. His call for members to participate actively in the primaries and support Obafemi Hamzat was described as both legitimate and well within his political rights.
The statement also called for unity, urging party stakeholders to avoid divisive rhetoric and focus on cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Justice Forum Endorses Hamzat
Recall that Lagos Panorama reported that the Justice Forum, a major APC bloc in Lagos, has endorsed Hamzat ahead of next month’s governorship primary.
The group directed its members and supporters to vote for Hamzat as the party’s flagbearer for the 2027 election, positioning him as a potential successor to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Key figures within the Justice Forum include former governor Babatunde Fashola, ex-deputy governor Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, and GAC chairman Tajudeen Olusi.
Faleke, who represents Ikeja Federal Constituency and chairs the House Committee on Finance, said the endorsement is aimed at ensuring Hamzat emerges as Lagos’ next governor.
Tinubu Meets GAC Leaders
Faleke’s position followed a recent meeting between leaders of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Ikoyi—reportedly the second such meeting within a month focused on the party’s 2027 succession plans.
Sources said Olusi and Lagos APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi were among those present.
In a message shared on social media, Faleke further urged party loyalists across Lagos to rally behind Hamzat’s governorship ambition, reiterating the need for unity and collective focus ahead of the elections.
