Oba Olatunji Hamzat: A Political Architect in Lagos State Development
By Trek Africa Newspaper
Oba Olatunji Hamzat was a prominent and highly respected figure in the political history of Lagos State, widely acknowledged for his influence, mentorship, and contributions to the emergence of key leaders and political structures in the state.
He is often credited by political observers and supporters with playing a foundational role in the early political journey of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including encouraging and guiding him into active participation in Lagos politics at a critical time.
His influence is also linked to encouraging Tinubu’s decision to contest for the Senate, a move that helped shape the trajectory of Tinubu’s national political rise.
Beyond mentorship, Oba Olatunji Hamzat was recognized as a founding member of influential political platforms such as the Lagos Governance Advisory Council (GAC), as well as co-founding major political and civic groups including the PRIMROSE Group and the Justice Forum.
These platforms have played significant roles in shaping political direction, strategy, and unity within Lagos politics over the years.
He was also associated with intellectual contributions to key developmental ideas in Lagos State, including early discussions around modern transportation systems such as the Lagos rail infrastructure vision, which has become a major part of the state’s urban development plan.
As a political elder and strategist, his legacy is often described in terms of mentorship, institution-building, and his role in nurturing leadership across generations.
He was also the father of the present Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, further extending his family’s influence in contemporary Lagos governance.
He passed away on 12 May 2019 after a brief illness, leaving behind a lasting political legacy in Lagos State.
His name continues to resonate strongly in conversations about the evolution of modern Lagos politics and leadership development.
