PROFILE: Meet Lagos APC deputy governorship candidate, Damilola Sonayon-James
Hon. Princess Damilola Sonayon-James has emerged as the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, bringing a blend of political experience, grassroots mobilisation and community development expertise to the party’s ticket.
Sonayon-James currently serves as the Assistant State Woman Leader of the APC in Lagos State and hails from the Kweme Kingdom in Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
A member of the Badagry royal family, she is the granddaughter of the late Oba Afolabi Ogungbe James and comes from a lineage with a longstanding history of political participation and public service.
She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Human Resources Management from the University of Hull, United Kingdom, and a Master of Science degree in Social Work (Community Development) from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH).
Her public service record includes serving as a Supervisory Councillor in Badagry West LCDA. She also served as a member of the Think Tank of the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development.
Sonayon-James is widely recognised for her involvement in grassroots politics, community engagement and women-focused political mobilisation. Supporters also point to her family’s association with the political ideals of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and their support for the administration of former Lagos State Governor, Alhaji Lateef Jakande.
Her emergence has been welcomed by party members and stakeholders, particularly in Badagry Division, who view her nomination as a step towards strengthening representation for the coastal axis of Lagos State.
The name “Sonayon,” derived from the Ègùn language spoken in Badagry and neighbouring communities, translates as “Tomorrow is Bright” or “Better Days Ahead.”
Recall that Western Post recently reported exclusively that the APC had settled for Sonayon-James as its deputy governorship candidate to run alongside incumbent Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat, who emerged as the party’s governorship candidate.
Sources familiar with the development said her selection followed extensive consultations within the party and reflected her growing influence in grassroots politics, public service and community development.
Before assuming her current position as Assistant State Woman Leader of the APC, she served as Supervisory Councillor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West LCDA, where she built a reputation for community engagement and grassroots mobilisation.
An official announcement by the party is expected in the coming days.
