JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has officially announced Damilola Sonayan-James as its deputy governor candidate to run alongside the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, in the upcoming gubernatorial election.
The announcement, made on Monday by APC Lagos Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, confirms weeks of speculation surrounding the choice of running mate and positions the Badagry-born politician as a key figure in the party’s succession strategy.
Sonayan-James, who is currently APC Deputy Women Leader in Lagos State, was selected following consultations with party leaders and stakeholders across the state.
According to Ojelabi, his candidacy was based on several factors, including his political experience, leadership credibility and grassroots appeal.
He said he was selected because of his “competence, leadership capacity, grassroots acceptance, party loyalty and ability to make meaningful contributions to the continued development of Lagos State.”
The official backing followed celebrations in Badagry and among his supporters after indications emerged in late May that he had become a leading contender for the job.
His appearance was also preceded by a high-level meeting involving prominent party leaders, including Government Advisory Council chairman Tajudeen Olusi, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, APC governorship candidate Obafemi Hamzat, state party chairmen and other influential stakeholders.
Providing further insight into the selection process, Ojelabi explained that Sonayan-James’ nomination was the result of extensive consultations and careful evaluation.
Also read: Nigerian-British singer Talay Riley stabbed to death in London
According to him, its emergence was the result of “extensive consultation and a rigorous selection process.”
He further stated that, “Sonayan-James distinguished herself through her extraordinary commitment to service, unwavering dedication to the party, strength of character, innovative thinking, and her proven track record of leadership in the public, private, and political sectors.”
The APC chairman expressed confidence that the Hamzat-Sonayan-James pair will provide the necessary leadership to sustain the development trajectory of Lagos State.
He described the partnership as “a combination of experience, innovation, grassroots connections and visionary leadership capable of advancing the development aspirations of the people of Lagos.”
Hamzat secured the APC governorship ticket during the party primaries held at the APC Secretariat in Ogba on May 21. He defeated his closest challenger, Lanre Jim-Kamal, after garnering 657,917 votes from 657,974 accredited delegates, while Jim-Kamal received one vote.
Another candidate from Badagry, Samuel Ajose, withdrew from the race shortly before voting began.
Calling on citizens to support the APC ahead of the elections, Ojelabi said the party remains committed to sustainable and inclusive governance.
He urged Lagosians to support the candidate, stressing that supporting the APC would ensure continued progress and development across the state.
The statement further read, “Her dedication to service and strong relationships with the community have made her a respected community administrator, especially among women and the younger generation, many of whom affectionately refer to her as the ‘Eco Side of the APC’.”
At 41 years old, Sonayan-James has built a reputation in advocacy programs focused on agricultural development, youth engagement, women’s empowerment, educational support, and community-based social intervention initiatives.
His political career includes service as Superintendent of Agriculture and Social Services in the West Badagry Local Council Development Area. He also previously ran for the post of Badagry West LCDA chairman, although he was unsuccessful in that candidacy.
With its emergence, political observers believe that the APC is seeking to strengthen its appeal among the grassroots, especially among women, youth and constituents in Lagos West, while delivering a ticket designed to consolidate support across the state ahead of the gubernatorial election.
