News reports that Ajose announced his decision on Tuesday, describing it as a difficult choice after much personal reflection.

He said his withdrawal was aimed at promoting unity within the APC in Lagos State and ensuring political stability within the party.

Ajose explained that the decision followed deep consideration of what would best serve party members, stakeholders, and the broader interests of the APC in the state.

He said, “I know it’s a very tough decision. I didn’t sleep overnight too. I struggled with it. But when I woke up this morning I had my peace.

“So that’s why I said everything that everyone we will benefit, give it to the governors we’re still going to benefit. Because we have made sure we took care of the needs of everybody and I think it’s the best for you.

“In the interest of the party, I, Governor Samuel Ajose, have decided I will let go. I will support Governor Hamzat. We’re going to be part of the campaign and we’re going to take an important position in his campaign.”

His decision comes weeks after another Lagos governorship aspirant, Abdul-Azeez Adediran (popularly known as Jandor), also stepped down and endorsed Hamzat.

Jandor had earlier stated that his withdrawal followed the endorsement of Hamzat by President Bola Tinubu and key APC leaders in Lagos State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and jointly signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, and National Organising Secretary, Theophilus Dakas Shan, the PDP said the adjustment was necessitated by growing requests from aspirants and stakeholders.

The party explained that the revised timetable is final, stressing the need to align with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) schedule. It urged all aspirants and party members to comply strictly with the updated dates.

Naija News reports that the PDP has fixed May 22, 2026, as the deadline for submission of completed nomination forms, while all primaries are scheduled for May 28, 2026.

According to the statement, the revised schedule includes key milestones such as special screening for previously unassessed aspirants, screening appeals, and the publication of cleared candidates.

The statement read in part: “Arising from the increasing demands from aspirants and other stakeholders, the Interim National Working Committee has approved a further and FINAL amendment to the timetable for pre-nomination activities as follows:

Last date for submission of completed forms – 22nd May, 2026
Special Screening (for those who have not been screened) – 23rd May, 2026
Screening Appeals
Publication of cleared aspirants – 25th May, 2026
Publication of cleared aspirants – 27th May, 2026
Primaries for all offices – 28th May, 2026

“All party members are advised to conform to this timetable as there would not be any further extension due to the need to meet up with the electoral umpire’s schedule.”