The governor of Lagos, Akinwunmi Ambode, has lost the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party primary race jeopardising his chances of a second term in next year's general election.

Mr Ambode got 72,901 votes to Babajide Sanwo-Olu's 970,851 votes in Tuesday primaries.

The backing of APC leader and political godfather Bola Tinubu for Mr Sanwo-Olu is being seen as key to his surprising victory.

There had been reports that Mr Tinubu and President Muhammadu Buhari were in disagreement over who to back.

It is unclear if Mr Ambode might leave the ruling party to ensure he competes in the governor election.

Lagos, Nigeria largest city of 20 million people, is key to President Buhari's re-election plan.

Mr Buhari will soon know his main opponent as the main opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) will this weekend choose its presidential candidate. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and Senate leader Bukola Saraki are seen as front-runners for the pick.