Jul 17, 2026

Tinubu Left Running Mate Choice to Lagos APC – Hamzat

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in politics

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LAGOS, Nigeria — In a candid revelation that sheds light on the inner workings of Lagos politics, Obafemi Hamzat, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the 2027 election and current Deputy Governor, has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu delegated the selection of his running mate entirely to the Lagos State chapter of the APC.

Speaking on Thursday at the public presentation of the book Who Is She? authored by Damilola James—his eventual running mate—Hamzat admitted he did not even have James’ phone number before the party made its decision.

He emphasized that after Tinubu agreed the position should go to a young woman, the responsibility was handed over to the state party structure.

This disclosure offers a rare glimpse into the consultative and hierarchical nature of candidate selection within the APC in Lagos, a state long regarded as the party’s stronghold.

Hamzat’s comments underscore the significant influence President Tinubu continues to wield in Lagos politics while highlighting the autonomy granted to the state chapter in this instance.

Damilola Sonayon-James, a 41-year-old governance and development professional, was unveiled as Hamzat’s running mate in June 2026.

She currently serves as the Lagos APC Deputy Woman Leader and brings over 15 years of experience in public policy, sustainability, human capital strategy, and community development.

Her selection was praised for promoting youth and women’s inclusion in governance.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had earlier endorsed Hamzat as his preferred successor, describing the Hamzat-James ticket as one that combines experience, competence, and fresh energy to sustain Lagos’ development trajectory.

The pair represents continuity of the current administration’s agenda while signaling a push for broader inclusivity.

Hamzat’s revelation comes at a time when political gladiators are positioning themselves for the 2027 governorship race.

His emphasis on the party-driven process may be intended to counter perceptions of imposition and to project unity within the APC.

For many Lagosians, this ticket represents both hope and continuity—hope for sustained progress in Africa’s largest economy and continuity in a state that has become a model of urban development despite its challenges.

However, the opposition will undoubtedly scrutinize the selection process as the campaign intensifies.

As Hamzat and James prepare for what promises to be a fiercely contested election, their ability to connect with ordinary residents — from market women in Badagry to tech entrepreneurs in Yaba — will be crucial.

The deputy governor’s story of not knowing his running mate beforehand humanizes the often opaque world of high-level politics and reminds us that even at the highest levels, surprises and delegation play key roles.

The coming months will test whether this ticket can translate presidential backing and party machinery into genuine grassroots enthusiasm and electoral victory.