The Most Reverend Isaac Ayo Olawuyi, Archbishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria Lagos, has advocated for the election of a Muslim governor in Lagos State in 2027, calling for a shift in the religious leadership of the state. The call comes as the current governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who is a Christian, is set to complete his second term in 2027, marking the end of 12 consecutive years of Christian governance in Lagos.
During the 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Service of the Lagos State House of Assembly, which was themed “The Voice of Mercy,” Archbishop Olawuyi spoke about the significance of religious tolerance in leadership roles. He noted that after the tenure of Sanwo-Olu, it would be appropriate to allow a Muslim to assume the position of governor in the state, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and balance in governance.
Archbishop Olawuyi pointed out that since 2015, the governorship of Lagos has been held by Christians, with Akinwunmi Ambode serving as governor from 2015 to 2019, followed by Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who is currently in his second term. He emphasized that 2027 would mark 12 years of Christian leadership in Lagos, making it a fitting time to give Muslims the opportunity to take charge of the state. According to the Archbishop, this would contribute to a more diverse and balanced political structure in Lagos.
Additionally, the Archbishop reflected on the period between 1999 and 2015, during which Lagos was governed by Muslim leaders—Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola—before the state transitioned to Christian leadership. This historical context, according to the Archbishop, further supports the notion of religious rotation and the need for a Muslim leader in the upcoming 2027 governorship election.
This statement, which has sparked significant discussion, was officially released by Eromosele Ebhomele, the Chief Press Secretary to Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. It has raised important questions about the role of religion in political leadership in Lagos, as well as the ongoing dialogue about religious balance in Nigerian politics.
