The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially unveiled Damilola Sonayan-James as the running mate to its governorship candidate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, who said Sonayan-James emerged after an extensive consultation and selection process involving key stakeholders within the party.
According to Ojelabi, the choice of the Badagry-born politician was based on her demonstrated competence, leadership qualities, grassroots appeal, loyalty to the party, and her capacity to contribute to the continued growth and development of Lagos State.
The confirmation of Sonayan-James’ nomination follows weeks of speculation and excitement among supporters in Badagry and across the state after indications emerged at the end of May that she was being considered for the position.
Her emergence was also preceded by a high-level meeting attended by prominent APC leaders, including Tajudeen Olusi, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, APC governorship candidate Obafemi Hamzat, the state party chairman, Sonayan-James, and other influential figures within the Lagos APC structure.
Ojelabi stated that Sonayan-James distinguished herself throughout the selection process due to her outstanding commitment to public service, dedication to party ideals, innovative approach to leadership, and strong record of performance in both public and political engagements.
He explained that the APC believes the Hamzat-Sonayan-James ticket represents a strategic combination of experience, fresh ideas, grassroots connectivity, and visionary leadership capable of advancing Lagos State’s developmental agenda.
The APC chairman further described the ticket as one that reflects the party’s commitment to continuity, inclusive governance, economic prosperity, and sustainable development across the state.
Dr. Hamzat secured the APC governorship ticket during the party’s primary election held at the APC Secretariat in Ogba on May 21. He won overwhelmingly with 657,917 votes out of 657,974 accredited votes cast. His closest challenger, Lanre Jim-Kamal, received just one vote, while another aspirant, Samuel Ajose, withdrew from the contest shortly before the exercise commenced.
Calling on Lagos residents to support the APC ticket, Ojelabi said a vote for the party would represent support for continued progress and development in the state.
The statement also highlighted Sonayan-James’ popularity among grassroots supporters, particularly women and young people, many of whom affectionately refer to her as “Sisi Eko of APC.”
At 41 years old, Sonayan-James has built a reputation for championing programmes focused on agricultural development, youth empowerment, women’s inclusion, educational support initiatives, community welfare, and social intervention projects.
Before becoming the APC Deputy Woman Leader in Lagos State, she served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area. She also previously contested for the chairmanship position of the council but was unsuccessful.
Her selection is being viewed by party supporters as a move aimed at strengthening the APC’s grassroots appeal, particularly in Badagry and other parts of Lagos, as preparations begin for the 2027 governorship election.
