The Human Rights Association (HRA) has thrown its weight behind Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, endorsing him...
The Human Rights Association (HRA) has thrown its weight behind Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, endorsing him as its preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary slated for May 2026.
The endorsement was issued by HRA Chairman, Saad Kassis-Mohamed, who said the decision was based on what he described as Hamzat’s “governance record” and his commitment to evidence-based, people-centred administration in Lagos State.
Hamzat, who has served as deputy governor since 2019, previously held key executive positions in infrastructure, science, and technology. According to the HRA, his tenure reflects a focus on strengthening institutions, advancing urban development, and improving service delivery to residents.
Kassis-Mohamed noted that Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic hub, requires leadership that integrates infrastructure, economic access, and civic welfare. He stated that Hamzat has demonstrated an understanding of this interconnected approach during his time in office.
The HRA clarified that the endorsement does not represent an institutional alignment with any political party. Rather, it was made in the personal capacity of its chairman as a public advocate, given the significance of leadership transition in Lagos and its impact on millions of residents.
The association also acknowledged that the APC primary remains competitive, with multiple aspirants in the race, and emphasized that the final decision rests with party members and, ultimately, the electorate.
“This endorsement is intended to contribute a human rights perspective to the public conversation around candidate selection, not to pre-empt democratic processes,” the statement added.
The HRA further said it would continue to monitor governance outcomes in Lagos and across West and Central Africa, pledging to engage constructively with any administration that prioritizes the rights and welfare of citizens.
The organisation, which is involved in humanitarian intervention and labour rights advocacy, also highlighted its recent engagements with international bodies, including the United Nations, as part of its broader commitment to defending human rights.
It maintained that its position on the Lagos governorship underscores a core principle: governance must remain accountable to the people above political interests.
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