Obafemi Hamzat, the deputy governor of Lagos State, has pushed back against the common perception of deputy governors as politically sidelined figures, saying his experience in office has been markedly different.
“A lot of people refer to deputy governors as spare tyres,” Hamzat said, “but I can tell you I was never treated as such by Babajide Sanwo-Olu.”
His remarks highlight an ongoing conversation in Nigeria’s political space, where deputy governors are often viewed as ceremonial or marginalised within executive decision-making. Hamzat, however, credited Governor Sanwo-Olu for fostering a more inclusive working relationship, suggesting a governance style that departs from that narrative.
While he did not elaborate on specific instances, the statement underscores what he described as mutual respect and active collaboration within the Lagos State executive.
The comments come amid broader scrutiny of political roles and power dynamics in Nigeria’s state governments, where the influence of deputies can vary significantly depending on leadership style and internal political arrangements.
