The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has described Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, as an intelligent and hardworking leader with the capacity to govern the state.
Akiolu made the remarks on Thursday when Hamzat paid a courtesy visit to his palace before proceeding to Iga Egbe on Lagos Island, the maternal home of the deputy governor.
Members of Hamzat’s entourage included the Director-General of his political team, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro; Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi; former Senator Gbenga Ashafa; and several former local government chairmen.
The monarch recalled meeting Hamzat in the United States in 2002 and said he was impressed by his intelligence and leadership potential. According to him, the encounter prompted him to advise then-Lagos State Governor, Bola Tinubu, to encourage Hamzat’s return to Nigeria to contribute to the development of Lagos.
“You must be honest and close to God to succeed in leadership,” Akiolu said.
“I have known Obafemi Hamzat for over 24 years. In 2002, when I visited the United States, I discussed with his late father and told Asiwaju Bola Tinubu that Hamzat possessed exceptional intelligence and should be considered for future leadership in Lagos.”
The monarch, however, disclosed that he had initially opposed Hamzat’s governorship ambition.
“He had attempted it before and I was among those who opposed it. Not because he lacked the qualities, but because of circumstances at the time. He is very intelligent and hardworking. God has His own timing for everything,” he said.
Akiolu advised Hamzat to remain humble and accessible if he eventually becomes governor, urging him not to neglect party loyalists and grassroots supporters. He also encouraged him to focus on empowering party members and residents through sustainable opportunities rather than short-term benefits.
The traditional ruler stressed the importance of honesty, prayerfulness and selflessness in public service, while calling on politicians and residents to promote peace and unity. According to him, political disagreements should not be mistaken for personal conflicts, and leaders must pursue policies that foster unity, sustainable development and long-term prosperity.
On security, Akiolu reiterated his support for state and local government policing, arguing that decentralised policing would improve security management if properly funded and equipped. He said adequate logistics, training and operational resources would be essential for such a system to effectively address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Responding, Hamzat described the visit as a reaffirmation of cultural heritage and political inclusiveness. He said regular engagement with traditional institutions helps preserve Yoruba values, strengthen communal identity and educate younger generations about their history and heritage.
The deputy governor also reassured Lagos residents of the state government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security, pledging that the administration would continue to protect lives and property. He urged residents to remain law-abiding and peaceful, assuring them that the government remains focused on sustaining stability and advancing Lagos’ economic and social development.