Lagos Baales’ Forum Backs Tinubu’s Reelection, Drums Support For Hamzat

Lagos State Baales’ Forum has declared its support for the reelection bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the forthcoming 2027 general election.

It also threw its weight behind the emergence of Dr Obafemi Hamzat as the APC governorship candidate of Lagos State.

The endorsement came on Wednesday during a strategic meeting of traditional rulers drawn from the 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas of Lagos State, held in Ikeja.

Operating under the umbrella of the Lagos State Baales Forum, the traditional rulers said President Tinubu has consistently demonstrated uncommon respect and commitment to the traditional institution, dating back to his tenure as Lagos State governor.

Speaking on behalf of the Baales, the Baale of Ijeododo, High Chief Abu Jelili Ododo, who is also the Oba-Elect of Ijeododo, described Tinubu as a leader who elevated the status and welfare of traditional rulers across the state.

According to him, Tinubu’s administration as governor improved Baales’ welfare packages, increased their salaries, and provided utility vehicles to support their traditional and community responsibilities.

Ododo further commended the President’s ongoing economic and social reforms, saying the policies are gradually restoring hope, improving livelihoods and repositioning the nation for sustainable growth.

He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in supporting the Tinubu administration beyond 2027, stressing that continuity would consolidate the gains already recorded across critical sectors of the economy.

“President Tinubu has always shown love and respect for traditional rulers. His leadership style reflects a deep understanding of the role of grassroots institutions in nation-building. We are committed to mobilising our people to support him massively in 2027,” he said.

The Baales also pledged support for the governorship ambition of Dr Obafemi Hamzat, describing him as an experienced administrator whose loyalty, competence and understanding of governance make him a worthy successor for Lagos State.

In his remarks, the convener of the meeting, Dr Seyi Bamigbade, said traditional rulers remain indispensable stakeholders in grassroots mobilisation, peace-building and civic enlightenment.

He explained that the gathering became necessary to sensitise Baales across Lagos communities on the importance of mobilising residents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Bamigbade said the forum would embark on extensive grassroots engagement to ensure that residents participate actively in the electoral process and support candidates who would sustain development and stability in Lagos State and Nigeria at large.

“We believe continuity of purposeful leadership is critical to sustaining progress. Traditional rulers are closer to the people and understand their needs. Our role is to mobilise, educate and encourage civic participation at the grassroots,” he stated.

He also appreciated the continued support of the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Rilwan Akiolu, for his steadfast royal leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare and recognition of Baales across the state.