Lagos APC Deputy Governorship Candidate, Princess Damilola Sonayon-James, has reiterated the importance of responsible leadership, accountability, and inclusive governance as key drivers of sustainable development in Nigeria.
Epe Insights reports that Sonayon-James made the remarks during the 2026 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Law Week, where she joined former Lagos State Governor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, alongside other notable personalities for a high-level conversation on governance and democracy.
The event featured a thought-provoking session themed, “Law, Leadership, and the Ballot: Governance Beyond Politics.”
The gathering attracted leading figures from the legal profession, public service, civil society, academia, and the political sphere.
Discussions focused on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting effective leadership, and enhancing citizen participation in governance.
Participants examined the relationship between leadership, law, and democratic accountability in shaping national development.
During the session, Sonayon-James emphasized the need for leaders to remain committed to transparency, service delivery, and people-centered policies.
She noted that visionary leadership remains essential for addressing contemporary governance challenges and unlocking opportunities for national growth.
According to her, governance should be driven by the interests and aspirations of citizens rather than narrow political considerations.
She stressed that leaders must remain accountable to the people while ensuring that public institutions work effectively for the common good.
Speaking on inclusive governance, the APC deputy governorship candidate highlighted the party’s efforts to create opportunities for broad participation across different segments of society.
She explained that the APC has continued to promote structures that encourage engagement from youths, women, artisans, professionals, market traders, senior citizens, and other groups.
Sonayon-James stated that inclusive governance strengthens democracy by ensuring that no segment of society is left behind.
She added that active citizen participation remains critical to achieving sustainable development and social progress.
The APC chieftain further observed that democratic institutions become stronger when governments deliberately create avenues for meaningful public engagement.
She urged leaders at all levels to prioritize policies that improve the welfare and quality of life of citizens.
The session also provided an opportunity for participants to share perspectives on the future of governance in Nigeria.
Speakers explored practical solutions for strengthening public trust, promoting ethical leadership, and enhancing institutional effectiveness.
Former Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN, alongside other panelists, contributed to discussions on leadership, governance, and democratic responsibility.
Participants agreed that effective governance requires collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, and citizens.
Sonayon-James commended the NBA Ikeja Branch for organizing a platform that encourages constructive dialogue on issues affecting democracy and national development.
She noted that conversations centered on governance and leadership are necessary for building stronger institutions and more resilient communities.
According to her, platforms such as the NBA Law Week provide valuable opportunities to exchange ideas and promote informed public discourse.
She expressed confidence that sustained engagement among stakeholders would contribute to improved governance outcomes across the country.
Attendees praised the quality of discussions and the diverse perspectives shared during the session.
Many described the event as a timely intervention that highlighted the importance of leadership accountability and citizen participation.
The 2026 NBA Ikeja Law Week continues to serve as an important forum for addressing national issues and advancing conversations on democracy, justice, and development.
For Sonayon-James, the event reinforced her commitment to promoting inclusive leadership, strengthening democratic values, and supporting policies that deliver meaningful benefits to citizens.
The engagement also underscored the growing importance of dialogue and collaboration in shaping the future of governance in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.
