The All Progressives Congress (APC) has unveiled Hon. Damilola Sonayon-James, a Badagry princess and the party’s Lagos State Deputy Woman Leader, as the running mate to its governorship candidate, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, ahead of the February 2027 general election.
The announcement was made by the Lagos State APC Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, who said the decision followed extensive consultations and a rigorous selection process.
According to a statement issued by Ojelabi on behalf of the party, Sonayon-James emerged after considerations of “competence, leadership capacity, grassroots acceptance, party loyalty, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the continued development of Lagos State.”
Ojelabi said the deputy governorship candidate distinguished herself through “her exceptional commitment to service, unwavering dedication to the party, strength of character, innovative thinking, and proven track record of leadership across the public, private, and political sectors.”
He expressed confidence in the APC ticket, describing the Hamzat-Sonayon-James combination as “a blend of experience, innovation, grassroots connection, and visionary leadership capable of advancing the developmental aspirations of Lagosians.”
The APC chairman also appealed to residents of the state to support the party in the 2027 election.
“He urged residents of the state to support the APC team, noting that a vote for the party represents a vote for continuity, prosperity, inclusive growth, and a greater Lagos,” the statement said.
Sonayon-James, 41, is a governance and development professional with more than 15 years of experience in public policy, institutional development, sustainability, risk governance, human capital strategy, stakeholder engagement and community development.
She previously served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry-West Local Council Development Area, where she led programmes focused on agricultural development, women empowerment, youth inclusion, educational support, community welfare and social intervention.
The APC said she has remained active in grassroots political mobilisation, women leadership development, youth empowerment and community advocacy across Lagos State. Her engagement with communities has earned her recognition among supporters, many of whom refer to her as “Sisi Eko of APC”.
The party said her emergence as deputy governorship candidate underscores its commitment to inclusive leadership, youth participation and greater representation of women in governance, while advancing its vision for Lagos State’s development.
The announcement was contained in a statement signed by Lagos State APC Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi.Faridah Abdulkadiri
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