Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday introduced Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat and Damilola Sonayon-James as the governorship and deputy governorship candidates of the All Progressive Congress (APC). This announcement comes ahead of the 2027 general election.
Governor Sanwo-Olu shared the news in a post on X. He described the pair as leaders who can carry on the state’s development plans after his tenure ends.
"The true test of sustainable governance is the ability to pass the baton to proven hands, guided by minds that see the future clearly."
"Today, I present a ticket that reflects the strength, diversity, and future of our great state," the governor wrote.
In May, Mr Hamzat won the party’s governorship ticket for the 2027 election. He received support from various party members and leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, who endorsed him as the consensus candidate. Many other aspirants dropped out and supported him.
A few days ago, the party chose Ms Sonayon-James as Mr Hamzat’s running mate.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Mr Hamzat as a committed public servant and a reliable partner in governance. He noted that the deputy governor has been essential to the administration’s success since 2019.
The governor also highlighted Ms Sonayon-James, a professional in sustainability and a grassroots politician. He commended her for her efforts in community development and empowering youth.
"Together, they bring the experience, competence, and energy needed to build on our achievements and move Lagos forward," he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu urged APC members, party leaders, and Lagos residents to support the Hamzat-Sonayon-James ticket as the next governorship election approaches.
He stated that supporting the candidates would help maintain the state’s development efforts and promote the vision of a "Greater Lagos."
"As we prepare for the forthcoming gubernatorial election, I invite party faithful, stakeholders, and all Lagosians to support this team as we continue our shared mission of building a Greater Lagos," he added.
The governor’s endorsement came shortly after the Lagos chapter of the APC announced Ms Sonayon-James as Mr Hamzat’s running mate. This signals the party’s readiness for the 2027 election.
Ms Sonayon-James, 41, is currently the APC Deputy State Woman Leader. She has also served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area of Lagos State.
Mr Hamzat has been the deputy governor since 2019, and he aims to succeed Mr Sanwo-Olu when his second term ends in 2027.
The APC has been in control of Lagos since 1999 and remains the leading political party in the state. But in recent elections, the opposition has shown stronger performances, making the next governorship election a significant political contest ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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