The All Progressives Congress (APC) has named Damilola Sonayon-James as the running mate to its Lagos State governorship candidate, Obafemi Hamzat, ahead of the 2027 election.
Sonayon-James, 40, currently serves as the Lagos State Deputy Woman Leader of the APC.
Announcing the choice, Cornelius Ojelabi, the Lagos APC chairman and chairman of the Forum of APC State Chairmen, said her selection followed wide-ranging consultations and a thorough screening process.
According to him, the party considered factors such as competence, leadership ability, grassroots appeal, loyalty to the party, and capacity to contribute to the continued growth of Lagos State.
Ojelabi said Sonayon-James stood out because of her commitment to public service, dedication to the APC, and leadership record in both public and private sectors.
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He expressed confidence that the Hamzat-Sonayon-James ticket would strengthen the party’s chances in the governorship election and help sustain Lagos’ development trajectory.
“A vote for the party represents a vote for continuity, prosperity, inclusive growth, and a greater Lagos,” he said.
A governance and development professional, Sonayon-James has over 15 years of experience spanning public policy, institutional development, sustainability, risk governance, stakeholder engagement, human capital strategy, and community development.
She previously served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), where she spearheaded programmes focused on agriculture, women and youth empowerment, education support, and community welfare.
Beyond government service, she has remained active in grassroots political mobilisation, advocacy, and leadership development initiatives across Lagos State.
Widely known among party supporters as “Sisi Eko of APC,” Sonayon-James has built a reputation for championing women’s participation in politics and community engagement.
The APC said her nomination reflects the party’s commitment to inclusive governance, youth involvement, and greater representation for women in leadership positions.
According to the party, the decision aligns with its vision of promoting innovation, opportunity, and sustainable development in Lagos State.
