Hamzat Unaware of Running Mate Until Selection by APC

Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, disclosed that he did not know Damilola Sonayon-Jame prior to her selection as the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 elections. During a public event in Ikoyi, Hamzat explained that the choice of Sonayon-Jame was made after discussions within the Lagos APC, following a request from President Bola Tinubu.

The president agreed with Hamzat's suggestion to select a young woman for the position, which aligns with the party's strategy to consider the state's zoning plan. Hamzat noted that he had no personal connection with Sonayon-Jame and only learned of her candidacy after she was chosen, stating he did not even have her phone number.

The APC's decision reflects a broader strategy to engage younger candidates in leadership roles within the party.