By ADEYEMI ADELEYE

The All Progressives Congress (APC)in Lagos has unveiled Mrs Damilola Sonayon-James as its deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Sonayon-James currently serves as the State Deputy Woman Leader of APC.

Unveiling the candidate in Lagos, the State Chairman of the APC and Chairman of the Forum of 36 APC State Chairmen, Mr Cornelius Ojelabi, described Sonayon-James’emergence as the outcome of wide consultations and a rigorous selection process.

Ojelabi said that the party considered competence, leadership capacity, grassroots acceptance, party loyalty, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the continued development of Lagos State in Sonayon-James’ choice.

The chairman said that Sonayon-James distinguished herself through her exceptional commitment to service, unwavering dedication to the party.

According to him, the candidate has also distinguished herself in strength of character, innovative thinking, and proven track record of leadership across the public, private, and political sectors.

He expressed confidence in the APC ticket, describing the Hamzat/Sonayon-James combination as a blend of experience, innovation, grassroots connection, and visionary leadership.

Ojelabi urged residents of the state to support the APC team, noting that a vote for the party represents a vote for continuity, prosperity, inclusive growth, and a greater Lagos.

“Hon. Damilola Sonayon-James is a 41-year-old accomplished governance and development professional with over 15 years of experience.

“Her experience spans public policy, institutional development, sustainability, risk governance, human capital strategy, stakeholder engagement, and community development.

“Widely recognised for her grassroots engagement and commitment to community development, she previously served as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry-West Local Council Development Area.

“She (Sonayon-Jamees) championed several impactful initiatives focused on agricultural development, women empowerment, youth inclusion, educational support, community welfare, and social intervention programmes,” Ojelabi said.

According to the chairman, beyond public office, Sonayon-James has remained actively involved in grassroots political mobilisation, women’s leadership development, youth empowerment, and community advocacy across Lagos State.

“Her dedication to service and her close connection with the people have earned her widespread admiration, particularly among women and young people, many of whom affectionately refer to her as “Sisi Eko of APC”.

“Her emergence as deputy governorship candidate further reinforces the APC’s commitment to inclusive youth participation, women representation.

“This reinforces APC’s commitment to the continued advancement of Lagos State as Africa’s leading centre for innovation, opportunity, and sustainable development,” he said.

NAN reports the deputy governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, recently emerged the party’s governorship candidate. (NAN)

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