Damilola Marshal, daughter of Fuji music legend King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, has officially announced her intention to contest for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly. She will be vying to represent Surulere Constituency 2 in the 2027 elections.
Damilola, who currently serves as the Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, shared her plans in a post on her Instagram page on Tuesday. In her announcement, she expressed her commitment to serving the people of her constituency and promised to be a voice for the youth.
“I am excited to share that I, Barr. Damilola Ayinde Marshal, am stepping forward to serve the good people of Surulere Constituency 2 at the Lagos State House of Assembly,” she wrote.
The aspiring legislator highlighted her legal background and professional experience as key qualifications for her political ambition. She has practiced law for 12 years and believes that her experience has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to address issues of governance, justice, and community development.
“I am a woman of excellence and results. I am ready to serve and lead. With my background, I am fully prepared and ready to fight for what truly matters. I promise to be the voice of the youths in the House,” she said.
Damilola highlighted the importance of youth representation in government, noting that young people bring fresh perspectives and energy to decision-making processes. She believes that her candidacy reflects the kind of leadership her constituency needs at this time.
“As a young woman, I believe this is exactly what my people need right now, and that is why I decided to step forward,” she added in her post.
She also appealed to voters to support competence and progress in leadership, concluding her announcement with the words: “Youth Lokan!!! Igbega Eko, Ajumose wa ni,” which underscores her focus on youth engagement and collective development.
Damilola is expected to succeed Mosunmola Rotimi Sangodara, the current representative of Surulere Constituency 2, who also belongs to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Her decision to step forward marks a continuation of the party’s presence in the constituency while introducing fresh leadership.
The candidate’s educational background is notable. She earned her law degree from North America University, Houdegbe, in Cotonou, Benin Republic, and was called to the Nigerian Bar on December 15, 2015. She further obtained a Master of Laws degree from the prestigious University of Lagos in 2022, strengthening her legal expertise and readiness for public service.
Being the second daughter of KWAM1, Damilola comes from a family that is widely respected in Nigerian music and cultural circles. Her father’s influence in Fuji music has made the Marshall family a household name, but Damilola’s professional and political ambitions demonstrate her own path in governance and public service.
Surulere, a prominent urban area in Lagos State, is known for its vibrant community life and political engagement. Representatives from the area are expected to focus on issues such as youth empowerment, infrastructure development, education, and healthcare. Damilola’s emphasis on youth representation aligns with ongoing calls for greater involvement of young people in governance.
Her legal background is also considered an advantage, as it equips her with the knowledge to navigate legislative processes effectively. Lawyers entering politics are often expected to contribute meaningfully to lawmaking, oversight, and ensuring accountability in government operations.
Damilola’s decision to contest for the Assembly seat comes amid growing interest from other young professionals seeking elective offices across Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections. Many young candidates are positioning themselves to address issues that affect youth, such as unemployment, social amenities, and community development.
Her announcement has generated excitement on social media, where supporters have praised her courage, professionalism, and readiness to serve. Many commenters highlighted the importance of youth-led leadership and expressed optimism that Damilola could bring fresh ideas to the Lagos State House of Assembly.
As the 2027 elections approach, Surulere Constituency 2 voters will have the opportunity to choose between continuity and fresh representation. Damilola’s profile as a young, educated woman with legal and government experience positions her as a strong candidate in the race.