Lagos APC names Hamzat's deputy for election campaign

The All Progressives Congress in Lagos State has picked Damilola Sonayan-James as the running mate for their governorship candidate, Dr Obafemi Hamzat. Sonayan-James is the Deputy Woman Leader of the APC in Lagos.

Cornelius Ojelabi, the Lagos APC Chairman, shared this news in a statement on Monday.

Ojelabi said Sonayan-James, who hails from Badagry, was chosen for her “competence, leadership capacity, grassroots acceptance, party loyalty, and ability to contribute meaningfully to the continued development of Lagos State.”

Monday’s announcement followed celebrations among people from Badagry and supporters of Sonayan-James after hints in May suggested she would be selected.

The announcement happened after a meeting with important APC leaders, including Tajudeen Olusi, the leader of the Governance Advisory Council; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor Hamzat; Ojelabi; Sonayan-James; and other senior party members.

Ojelabi noted that Sonayan-James’ selection was the result of a “wide consultation and rigorous selection process.”

“Sonayan-James 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 added.

Ojelabi described the Hamzat-Sonayan-James partnership as a “blend of experience, innovation, grassroots connection, and visionary leadership capable of advancing the developmental aspirations of Lagosians.”

Recall that Hamzat became the APC candidate after winning the primary election held at the APC secretariat in Ogba on May 21. He got 657,917 votes out of 657,974 accredited votes, while his opponent, Lanre Jim-Kamal, received just one vote.

Another candidate from Badagry, Samuel Ajose, withdrew just before the primaries began.

Ojelabi urged Lagos residents to back the APC team, saying that voting for the party means voting for continuity, prosperity, inclusive growth, and a better Lagos.

The statement also mentioned, “Her dedication to service and strong rapport with the people have made her a respected community administrator, especially among women and young people, many of whom affectionately call her ‘Sisi Eko of APC.’”

The 41-year-old Sonayan-James is well-known for promoting agricultural development, women empowerment, youth inclusion, educational support, community welfare, and social intervention programs.

Before becoming the APC Deputy Woman Leader, she worked as the Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area and once ran for the chairmanship of Badagry West LCDA but was not successful.