By Ghazali Ibrahim
Mixed reactions have continued to trail APC Lagos gubernatorial aspirant, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose’s disclaimer distancing himself from a viral press release that claimed he endorsed Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, as the APC governorship candidate.
Ajose had described the publication as “false, unauthorized, and malicious,” insisting it did not emanate from him or his campaign.
However, the development has triggered a wave of responses on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the implications of his denial.
On X, some users raised concerns over whether Ajose’s statement suggests that the party’s candidate has not been conclusively decided.
A user, @murphyfada, wrote: “So what does this disclaimer say now? That you are not part of endorsing and agreeing to the consensus of Hamzat as the APC flag bearer? That there will still be a primary?”
Others were more critical of Ajose’s political stance, questioning his place within the APC. @matthew56880420 stated: “APC is not only a political party… obviously you can’t be given the party ticket because you are new there and not among the caucus.”
Some comments also reflected skepticism about Ajose’s chances in the race. @MichaelOlaoye27 wrote: “Till Seyi Tinubu and his children finish their terms, you will never be in Alausa.”
Similarly, @awujale_jnr added: “Badagry will never produce a governor in 20 years to come. I’m not a prophet, but it is what it is.”
Amid the criticism, a few voices called for calm and internal dialogue within the party.
@fix_it0001 advised: “Dialogue is better than heating the polity… we don’t want rancor in any form.”
Others expressed support for internal democracy, urging aspirants to test their popularity through due process.
@elhadi13th wrote: “Everyone should test their resolve and popularity within the party.”
The controversy also sparked debate about alleged influence within party structures.
@obadipeemmanuel claimed: “The endorsement of Dr. Obafemi Hamzat by the GAC and President Tinubu have inadvertently rigged the primary against Jandor and Mr Ajose.”
Meanwhile, some reactions were humorous.
@RHAY_bhoss remarked: “I like you no gree for them,” while another user, @dammie_kholar, cautioned: “You can’t bulldoze your way to power… you must be cautious.”
The range of reactions underscores growing tensions and uncertainty within the APC in Lagos as aspirants position themselves ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Ajose, however, has maintained that the alleged endorsement is fake and should be disregarded, while threatening legal action against those responsible for its circulation.
