- 2027 Lagos Poll: The Politics Behind Badagry’s Deputy Governorship Slot
- A source familiar with the party’s internal consultations said the decision to allocate the deputy governorship slot to Badagry was partly aimed at acknowledging the division’s demands
- Ajose described the development as a victory for Badagry and a recognition of Sonayon-James’ commitment to the APC
The emergence of Princess Damilola Sonayon-James as the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate in Lagos State has been linked to sustained political agitation from Badagry Division for greater representation in the state’s leadership structure, with party insiders describing the move as a strategic reward for the division’s loyalty and contributions to the ruling party.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Sonayon-James was recently unveiled as the running mate to APC governorship candidate, Obafemi Kadri Hamzat, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Tinubu Deeply Troubled by Oyo School Kidnap, Gbajabiamila Tells Families
- Poor Parenting Contributes to Insecurity in Nigeria – Sanwo-Olu
- A Ticket Built to Win? Examining the Strength of Hamzat and Sonayon-James
According to party sources, the decision was influenced by years of advocacy from political leaders, traditional rulers and stakeholders in Badagry, who had consistently pushed for the division to occupy either the governorship or deputy governorship position in Lagos State.
Before the APC governorship primary, which produced Hamzat as the party’s flagbearer, there were widespread calls from Badagry leaders for the governorship ticket to be zoned to the division.
The demand gained momentum in March when traditional rulers from Badagry publicly appealed to the party leadership to consider the division for the state’s top political office. The monarchs argued that Badagry had remained politically loyal to the APC and deserved greater representation in the state’s political hierarchy.
The agitation was also championed by former governorship aspirant, Samuel Ajose, who maintained his ambition before eventually stepping down ahead of the primary election.
A source familiar with the party’s internal consultations said the decision to allocate the deputy governorship slot to Badagry was partly aimed at acknowledging the division’s demands while ensuring political balance within the APC.
Another party source disclosed that the choice of Sonayon-James also addressed concerns raised by party stakeholders over the need to retain the traditional male-female governorship ticket that has largely characterised Lagos politics since 1999.
The source noted that after the emergence of Hamzat as governorship candidate, there were increasing calls within the party for a female running mate to complement the ticket and broaden its appeal across different demographics.
Sonayon-James currently serves as the Deputy State Chairman of the APC in Lagos State and is regarded as a grassroots politician with years of experience in party administration and community mobilisation.
She previously served as the State Assistant Woman Leader of the APC, where she played a key role in mobilising support for the party and promoting women’s participation in politics.
Her public service experience also includes serving as Supervisory Councillor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area, where she was involved in local governance and community development initiatives.
Academically, she holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and a degree in Business and Human Resources Management from University of Hull. She is also an entrepreneur and serves as the Chief Executive Officer of DGS Chauffeurs and Logistics.
Reacting to her emergence, Ajose described the development as a victory for Badagry and a recognition of Sonayon-James’ commitment to the APC.
He said the nomination reflected the growing influence of Badagry within Lagos politics and represented a significant milestone in the division’s quest for greater participation in the state’s leadership.
Political analysts believe the APC’s decision could strengthen the party’s support base in the Badagry axis while helping to consolidate its structure ahead of what is expected to be a keenly contested 2027 governorship election.
FURTHER READING
- Navy Boosts Personnel Welfare With Housing Units, Golf Club in Lagos
- ‘Tinubu Is the Father of New Nigeria,’ APC Governors Declare’
- Tinubu Launches Specialist Hospital, Emergency Ambulance Fleet Across Country
Click here to watch video of the week
