BADAGRY, LAGOS — The Badagry Women Development Forum (BWDF) has described the selection of Princess (Comrade) Damilola Sonayon-James as the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate for Lagos State as a historic victory for gender inclusion and regional representation.
In a celebratory statement released on Monday, June 1, 2026, the Principal Coordinator of the BWDF, Mrs. Sewede Pot-Balogun Olorunfemi, expressed immense pride in the elevation of one of the forum's pioneer members to the pinnacle of state politics.
The BWDF leadership emphasized that Sonayon-James’ emergence was not a matter of chance but a result of her proven track record in grassroots governance and party administration. Having served as the Supervisor for Agriculture in the Badagry West LCDA and later as the Deputy Woman Leader of the APC in Lagos State, her resume is seen as the perfect fit for the Deputy Governor’s office.
Mrs. Sewede Pot-Balogun Olorunfemi noted that the candidate possesses the rare blend of empathy and executive capacity required to govern a complex state like Lagos.
“For those of us who are familiar with her, she is the right choice and a round peg in a round hole. Comrade Damilola has demonstrated capacity to lead at different levels and platforms. She is truly positioned to be a result-oriented and purpose-driven leader.”
Beyond her political credentials, the forum highlighted her personal contributions to women's development in the Badagry division. As a "backbone" of the BWDF, Sonayon-James has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives that empower local women through agriculture and social advocacy.
The statement also touched on the symbolic meaning of her name, "Sonayon," which translates to "Tomorrow will be great," as a prophetic sign of what her leadership represents for the future of Lagos.
“As her name implies, she is a young but great leader with a lot of potential. Being able to deputize for a state like Lagos shows she is destined, positioned, equipped, and designed for more opportunities in the future,” Olorunfemi added.
The endorsement from the BWDF signals a strong, unified voting bloc forming behind the Hamzat-Sonayon-James ticket in the Badagry division. For a region that has long sought a more prominent seat at the "center" of Lagos governance, this nomination is being treated as a collective achievement for the entire community.
The forum concluded by offering its full support and "best wishes" to the candidate, ensuring that the women of Badagry will be at the forefront of the upcoming campaign trail to ensure a resounding victory at the polls.