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

The All Progressives Congress, APC, has formally announced Princess Damilola Sonayon-James as the deputy governorship candidate to run alongside Dr Obafemi Hamzat in the 2027 Lagos State governorship election.

The announcement was made on Monday by the Lagos State APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, who said the decision followed extensive consultations within the party.

Sonayon-James’ nomination had earlier received the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu and the Governance Advisory Council, GAC, the apex decision-making body of the APC in Lagos State.

Her emergence comes as Hamzat’s governorship bid continues to attract support from various interest groups, including labour organisations, transport unions, religious groups and other stakeholders across the state.

Following Hamzat’s emergence as the party’s consensus governorship candidate, the APC leadership had embarked on consultations aimed at selecting a suitable deputy governorship candidate.

Sonayon-James, who currently serves as the Lagos APC Deputy Woman Leader, will now join Hamzat on the party’s ticket ahead of the February 2027 election.

Explaining the choice, Ojelabi said the selection process was guided by several considerations, including competence, leadership ability, grassroots appeal, loyalty to the party and the capacity to contribute to the continued growth and development of Lagos State.

According to him, Sonayon-James stood out because of her dedication to public service, commitment to the APC, leadership qualities and experience gained across the public, private and political sectors.

The APC chairman expressed optimism that the Hamzat-Sonayon-James ticket would provide the blend of experience, innovation and grassroots engagement needed to drive the state’s development agenda.

He described the partnership as one capable of sustaining progress and responding effectively to the aspirations of Lagos residents.

Ojelabi also appealed to voters to support the APC in the forthcoming election, arguing that the party remains committed to continuity, economic growth, inclusive governance and the overall advancement of the state.

He noted that Sonayon-James enjoys considerable popularity, particularly among women and young people, owing to her longstanding engagement with communities and commitment to service.

According to him, her selection further reflects the party’s commitment to promoting inclusiveness, encouraging greater participation of women and young people in governance, and strengthening efforts aimed at positioning Lagos as a leading centre for innovation, investment and sustainable development in Africa.