Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat has revealed how he first established contact with his running mate, Damilola Sonayon-James, saying he had to obtain her phone number from another person after she was selected to join him on the ticket for the 2027 governorship election.
Hamzat made the disclosure while recounting the events that followed the announcement of Sonayon-James as his running mate, describing the experience as both unexpected and memorable.
According to the deputy governor, he had not known Sonayon-James personally before her selection and therefore needed assistance to reach her.
“I got her phone number from someone else because I didn’t have it,” Hamzat said, explaining that contacting her was one of the first steps he took after learning they would be working together.
He noted that the conversation marked the beginning of what he hopes will be a productive partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for Lagos State.
Hamzat described Sonayon-James as a competent professional whose selection reflects the importance of bringing experienced and capable individuals into public service.
He expressed confidence that the partnership would strengthen the campaign and contribute to delivering effective governance if elected.
The deputy governor said teamwork, trust, and open communication would be critical as they prepare for the governorship race, adding that both candidates are committed to advancing policies that address the needs of Lagos residents.
He stressed that their focus would remain on continuity, development, and improving the welfare of the people through people-centred governance.
Hamzat also thanked party leaders and stakeholders for the confidence reposed in the ticket, pledging to justify the trust placed in him and his running mate.
He urged party supporters to remain united and work together ahead of the election, saying collective effort would be essential to achieving success at the polls.
Political observers have described Hamzat’s remarks as a rare insight into the process that often follows the emergence of candidates for major elections, where running mates may not necessarily have had prior personal relationships before being paired on a joint ticket.
The revelation has also generated public interest, with many commenting on the practical realities of political alliances and candidate selection within Nigeria’s democratic process.
Sonayon-James’ emergence as Hamzat’s running mate has attracted attention from political stakeholders, who view the pairing as a significant development ahead of the 2027 Lagos governorship election.
As preparations for the polls continue, both candidates are expected to engage party members, community leaders, and voters across the state to present their agenda and consolidate support.
Hamzat reiterated his commitment to working closely with his running mate, expressing optimism that their partnership would contribute positively to the future of Lagos State if given the mandate by the electorate.
