Lagos 2027: APC names Sonayon-James as Hamzat’s running mate

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has unveiled Mrs Damilola Sonayon-James as the party’s deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 general election.

Sonayon-James, who currently serves as the APC Deputy Women Leader in Lagos State, will run alongside the party’s governorship candidate and incumbent Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony in Lagos, the state APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, said Sonayon-James emerged after extensive consultations and a thorough selection process that considered competence, leadership ability, grassroots appeal, party loyalty and capacity for service.

According to Ojelabi, the party was convinced of her suitability based on her track record in public service, community development and political mobilisation.

He described her as a dedicated party member with strong leadership qualities and a commitment to the continued growth and development of Lagos State.

“Her emergence reflects the party’s confidence in her ability to contribute meaningfully to governance and support the vision of a greater Lagos,” Ojelabi said.

The APC chairman expressed optimism that the Hamzat/Sonayon-James ticket would provide a blend of experience, innovation and grassroots connection capable of advancing the state’s development agenda.

He urged Lagos residents to support the party in the 2027 election, describing the APC ticket as a platform for continuity, prosperity and inclusive development.

Providing details of her background, Ojelabi said Sonayon-James is a governance and development professional with more than 15 years of experience spanning public policy, institutional development, sustainability, risk governance, human capital management and stakeholder engagement.

He noted that she previously served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in the Badagry-West Local Council Development Area, where she championed programmes focused on agriculture, women empowerment, youth inclusion, education and community welfare.

According to him, Sonayon-James has remained actively involved in grassroots politics and advocacy, earning recognition for her efforts in promoting women’s participation and youth development across the state.

“Her dedication to service and strong connection with the grassroots have earned her admiration among women and young people, many of whom fondly refer to her as ‘Sisi Eko of APC’,” he said.

Ojelabi added that her nomination underscores the party’s commitment to greater inclusion of women and young people in leadership positions.

He said the APC remains focused on sustaining Lagos State’s status as a leading centre for innovation, investment and economic growth in Africa.

Hamzat recently emerged as the APC governorship candidate for the 2027 election, setting the stage for the party’s campaign ahead of the polls.