Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has formally unveiled Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 Lagos governorship election, with Princess Damilola Sonayon-James named as his running mate.
The announcement marks a major step in the ruling party’s succession plan in Nigeria’s commercial capital, signalling the APC’s intention to retain control of Lagos after the end of Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.
In a statement shared via his verified X account on Thursday, Sanwo-Olu described the Hamzat–Sonayon-James ticket as a combination of experience, competence and inclusive leadership capable of sustaining the state’s development trajectory.
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“The true test of sustainable governance is the ability to pass the baton to proven hands, guided by minds that see the future clearly,” the governor stated.
He said the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to continuity and the consolidation of ongoing reforms across infrastructure, transportation, technology, housing and economic development.
Sanwo-Olu praised Hamzat, who has served as deputy governor since 2019, describing him as a loyal partner and a public servant whose contributions have played a significant role in the implementation of the administration’s policies.
“Dr Obafemi Hamzat has proven himself to be a dedicated public servant, a dependable partner in governance and a steadfast advocate for progress,” the governor said.
Hamzat is widely regarded as one of the most experienced figures in Lagos politics and public administration. Before becoming deputy governor, he served as commissioner in several ministries under previous administrations and has remained a prominent voice in policy implementation within the state government.
Sanwo-Olu also highlighted the credentials of Sonayon-James, describing her as a respected leader with a strong background in sustainability, youth empowerment and grassroots development.
“Joining him as his running mate is Princess Damilola Sonayon-James, a respected leader, sustainability professional and grassroots champion whose commitment to community development and youth empowerment reflects the aspirations of many Lagosians,” he said.
The governor said both candidates possess the qualities required to build on existing achievements while addressing emerging challenges in one of Africa’s fastest-growing megacities.
“Together, they bring the experience, competence and energy needed to build on our achievements and move Lagos forward,” he added.
The unveiling comes weeks after Hamzat secured the APC governorship ticket at the party’s primary election held at the APC secretariat in Ogba. Official results showed that he polled 657,917 votes out of 657,974 accredited votes cast, while his challenger, Lanre Jim-Kamal, received one vote.
Political observers view the emergence of Hamzat as a move aimed at preserving continuity within the Lagos APC structure, which has governed the state since the return to democratic rule in 1999.
The selection of Sonayon-James has also attracted attention within political circles, with party stakeholders describing it as an effort to broaden representation and strengthen grassroots engagement ahead of the next election cycle.
As preparations for the 2027 governorship race gradually gather momentum, Sanwo-Olu called on APC members, party leaders, stakeholders and residents of the state to rally behind the ticket.
“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,” the governor said.
The unveiling effectively sets the stage for what is expected to be an intense political contest in Lagos, with the APC seeking to maintain its dominance while opposition parties prepare to challenge the ruling party’s long-standing grip on the state.
