Lagos 2027: APC dumps Salu-Hundeyin, picks Sonayon-James as Hamzat’s running mate

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

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

The decision reportedly puts to rest speculation surrounding the choice of Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the current Secretary to the State Government (SSG), who was earlier linked to the position and represents the Badagry division.

According to party sources, Sonayon-James’ nomination was backed by President Bola Tinubu and the Governance Advisory Committee (GAC), the highest decision-making body of the APC in Lagos State.

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

She is also an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) expert and sustainability risk consultant, with experience spanning public service, community development, and political mobilisation.

The governorship ambition of Hamzat has reportedly received further boost from various stakeholders, including the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), transport unions, and religious organisations, who have expressed support for his candidacy.

Party insiders recalled that following Hamzat’s emergence as consensus candidate, the APC leadership began consultations to select a suitable running mate for the ticket.

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

Salu-Hundeyin, who was earlier considered for the role, is currently the Secretary to the State Government 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, including coordination of governance activities and engagement 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 said the final selection of Sonayon-James signals a strategic political alignment ahead of the 2027 elections in Lagos State.

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