The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced Damilola Sonayon-James, the party’s Deputy Women Leader, as the running mate to governorship candidate Obafemi Hamzat.
Her selection, according to the party, was aimed at meeting the criteria of gender balance and youth inclusion.Unveiling Sonayon-James, APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi explained that the choice followed extensive consultations and a rigorous screening process.
He emphasized that factors such as experience, capacity, grassroots acceptance, party loyalty, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development were all considered in making the decision.
Ojelabi said in a statement that her emergence “reinforces the APC’s commitment to inclusive leadership, youth participation, women representation and the continued advancement of Lagos State as Africa’s leading centre of innovation, opportunity and sustainable development.”
The choice of 41-year old Sonayan-James, a princess from Badagry Division, whose illustrious father was a member of the House of Representatives, followed the election of Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat as governorship candidate for next year’s election.
Ojelabi explained that she had distinguished herself through her exceptional commitment to service, unwavering dedication to the party, strength of character, innovative thinking and proven track record of leadership in private and public life.
He said the Hamzat-James ticket is a blend of experience, innovation, grassroots connection and visionary leadership capable of advancing the developmental aspirations of Lagosians.
He urged Lagosians to support the APC team, stressing that a vote for the party represents a vote for continuity, prosperity, inclusive growth and a greater Lagos.
Ojelabi described Sonayan-James as an accomplished governance and development professional with over 15 years of experience spanning public policy, institutional development, sustainability, risk governance, himan capital strategy, stakeholder engagement, and community development.
The chairman said Sonayan-James had served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), where she championed impactful initiatives focussed on agricultural development, women empowerment, youth inclusion, educational support, community welfare, and social intervention programmes.
Ojelabi added: “Beyond public office, she has remained actively involved in grassroots political mobilisation, women leadership development, youth empowerment, and community advocacy across Lagos State. Her dedication to service and her close connection with the people have earned her widespread admiration,particularly among women and young people, many of who affectionately refer to her as ‘Sisi Eko of APC.’
