APC selects Sonayon‑James as Hamzat’s running mate in Lagos 2027, dropping Salu‑Hundeyin.

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

LAGOS — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has selected Princess Damilola Sonayon‑James as the running mate for its governorship candidate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, ahead of the 2027 Lagos State governorship election.

The choice is believed to end speculation about Barrister Bimbola Salu‑Hundeyin, the current Secretary to the State Government (SSG) who had been linked to the position and represents the Badagry division.

Party sources say Sonayon‑James received backing from President Bola Tinubu and the Governance Advisory Committee (GAC), the APC’s highest decision‑making body in Lagos State.

She recently met Tinubu at his Lagos residence. Sonayon‑James is a grassroots politician and currently serves as Assistant State Woman Leader of the APC in Lagos State.

In addition to her political role, she is an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) expert and sustainability risk consultant with experience in public service, community development and political mobilisation.

Hamzat’s governorship bid has reportedly gained further momentum from support by the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), transport unions and religious organisations.

Party insiders recall that after Hamzat emerged as the consensus candidate, the APC leadership began consultations to choose a suitable running mate.

The initial choice faced opposition from some stakeholders, leading to objections over the nomination.

Salu‑Hundeyin, who had been considered for the role, is the current SSG and has been active in policy implementation, community engagement and coordination of state development programmes.

She was first appointed in June 2023 after previously serving as Federal Commissioner at the National Population Commission (NPC).

As SSG, she plays a key administrative role in the Lagos State government, coordinating governance activities and engaging with local councils on development matters.

She is also part of the executive team driving the state’s 2025 budget, which focuses on infrastructure and economic growth.

Party sources say the final selection of Sonayon‑James signals a strategic political alignment ahead of the 2027 elections in Lagos State.

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