Damilola Sonayan-James has been named as APC governorship candidate Obafemi Hamzat’s running mate for the Lagos governorship election

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (All Progressives Congress) has announced Damilola Sonayan-James, the party’s Deputy Woman Leader in the state, as the running mate to its governorship candidate, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

Also read: Obasa warns dissenters as Agege backs Hamzat for APC governorship ticket

The announcement was made on Monday by the Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, who said Sonayan-James was selected based on her competence, leadership capacity, grassroots acceptance, loyalty to the party and ability to contribute to the development of Lagos State.

According to Ojelabi, the choice of Damilola Sonayan-James followed extensive consultations and a rigorous selection process involving key stakeholders within the party.

The decision comes weeks after widespread celebrations among residents of Badagry and supporters of Sonayan-James following indications that she was favoured to emerge as the deputy governorship candidate.

The formal announcement also followed a high-level meeting attended by the leader of the Governance Advisory Council, Tajudeen Olusi, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat, Ojelabi, Sonayan-James and other senior party leaders.

Ojelabi described Sonayan-James as a committed party member who had distinguished herself through years of service, innovative thinking and leadership across public, private and political spheres.

He said the Hamzat-Sonayan-James ticket represents a powerful blend of experience, innovation, grassroots connection and visionary leadership capable of advancing the aspirations of Lagos residents.

Hamzat secured the APC governorship ticket during the party’s primary election held at the APC secretariat in Ogba on 21 May, polling 657,917 votes out of 657,974 accredited votes cast.

His closest challenger, Lanre Jim-Kamal, received one vote, while another aspirant, Samuel Ajose, withdrew before the exercise.

In his statement, Ojelabi urged Lagos residents to support the APC ticket, describing a vote for the party as support for continuity, prosperity, inclusive growth and a greater Lagos.

The party chairman also highlighted Sonayan-James’ popularity among women and young people, noting that many supporters affectionately refer to her as “Sisi Eko of APC”.

The 41-year-old politician is recognised for championing programmes focused on agricultural development, women’s empowerment, youth inclusion, education support, community welfare and social intervention initiatives.

Before becoming APC Deputy Woman Leader in Lagos State, Sonayan-James served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area. She also previously contested for the chairmanship of the council area but was unsuccessful.

Also read: Hamzat clears APC governorship screening in Lagos race

Her emergence strengthens Badagry’s representation on the APC governorship ticket ahead of the next Lagos governorship election and marks a significant milestone in her political career.