Lagos Politics: APC Elevates Sonayan-James, Strengthens 2027 Governorship Ticket

LAGOS — The All Progressives Congress has boosted its preparations for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election with the unveiling of Damilola Sonayan-James as its deputy governorship candidate, a move party leaders say is aimed at strengthening the party’s electoral prospects.

The announcement positions Sonayan-James as a key figure in the party’s campaign structure as the APC intensifies efforts to consolidate its political dominance in the state ahead of the polls.

Party officials described her emergence as the outcome of extensive consultations and a strategic decision to present a ticket that reflects competence, grassroots engagement and inclusive leadership.

Speaking on the development, APC leaders said Sonayan-James had demonstrated commitment to the party’s ideals and possessed the experience required to contribute meaningfully to governance if elected.

Her nomination is also expected to bolster the party’s appeal among women, youths and grassroots supporters, given her track record in community development and political mobilisation.

Political observers believe the decision underscores the APC’s determination to field a balanced ticket capable of sustaining its influence in Lagos while responding to the evolving expectations of the electorate.

With the unveiling concluded, attention is expected to shift to statewide mobilisation and engagement with stakeholders as the party prepares for what is anticipated to be a keenly contested governorship election in 2027.

2027 Assembly Race: ‘School Boy’ Sparks Fresh Hope for Surulere Constituency II

LAGOS – As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, growing support is emerging in Surulere Constituency II for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Assembly aspirant, Hon. Kayode Oloyede, popularly known as “School Boy.”

Running on the campaign theme, “Rebuild 2027,” Oloyede is positioning himself as an alternative voice for residents seeking a new direction in legislative representation and grassroots development.

A Vision Anchored on Four Pillars

The aspirant has built his campaign around a four-point agenda designed to address the concerns of constituents:

People First: Prioritising the welfare and everyday needs of residents above partisan considerations.

Transparent Leadership: Promoting accountability in legislative activities, constituency projects, and public resource management.

Inclusive Governance: Encouraging broad participation in decision-making by ensuring every segment of the constituency has a voice.

Sustainable Development: Advocating long-term investments in infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, and human capital development.

Growing Grassroots Appeal

Political observers say Oloyede’s grassroots engagement strategy and community-focused messaging have resonated with many residents who desire more accessible and responsive representation.

His campaign consistently emphasises the need to bridge the gap between elected representatives and the people, with a promise to build “a better, stronger, and more prosperous Surulere Constituency II.”

A community leader, who requested anonymity, said many residents are looking beyond political rhetoric and seeking leadership that understands their daily challenges.

“We need someone who genuinely understands the struggles of ordinary people and is prepared to serve the community. For many of us, the call to rebuild is not just a campaign slogan but a reflection of our aspirations for meaningful development,” the source said.

A Competitive Political Landscape

As the countdown to the 2027 elections continues, Oloyede has urged constituents to embrace a vision centred on progress, accountability, and community-driven governance.

While Surulere remains a politically competitive constituency with established structures and influential stakeholders, analysts believe the increasing visibility of the “School Boy” movement could make the contest one of the closely watched legislative races in Lagos State.

Ultimately, political observers note that while grassroots mobilisation is a significant factor, electoral outcomes will likely depend on a combination of candidate credibility, party strength, voter turnout, campaign organisation, and the prevailing political climate as the 2027 elections approach.

AMBO and the Osun Governorship Race: Assessing the Man, the Politics and the Vision

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election, a public affairs commentator, Oluseyi Olonade, has described the emergence of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, as a significant development in the state’s political landscape.

In an article titled “Oyebamiji: The Man, The Politics and The Aspiration,” Olonade argued that the All Progressives Congress governorship hopeful possesses the character, experience and vision needed to reposition Osun State for sustainable growth.

According to the writer, Oyebamiji’s appeal stems from his extensive background in the banking sector, where he spent nearly three decades working with institutions including Wema Bank, Trans International Bank, Spring Bank and Enterprise Bank.

A native of Ikire in Irewole Local Government Area, Oyebamiji was described as a technocrat whose experience in corporate governance, finance and risk management has shaped his approach to public administration.

The article noted that his public service journey gained prominence in 2012 when he was appointed to oversee the then Osun State Investment Company Limited. Under his leadership, the organisation was reportedly restructured and transformed into Omoluabi Holdings Limited.

The writer further highlighted Oyebamiji’s tenure as Commissioner for Finance under successive APC administrations, where he was credited with managing the state’s finances during challenging economic periods.

Olonade also referenced Oyebamiji’s appointment as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, describing it as further evidence of his administrative and leadership capabilities.

The article contrasted Oyebamiji’s governance philosophy with that of the current administration in Osun State, arguing that the APC aspirant favours institutional reforms, economic diversification and fiscal discipline.

According to the writer, Oyebamiji’s proposed agenda includes strengthening transparency in government spending, expanding internally generated revenue, attracting private-sector investments and promoting industrial and agricultural development.

The article also highlighted youth empowerment, entrepreneurship development and digital skills acquisition as key components of his vision for the state.

Olonade concluded that the forthcoming governorship election would present voters with a choice between different approaches to governance, expressing confidence that Oyebamiji’s experience and developmental agenda make him a strong contender in the race.