BADAGRY 2027: Barrister Noah Declares for Reps, Promises Federal Medical Center, Free Buses, and Study Abroad Opportunities

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Medemaku Abayomi Noah 

Barrister Medemaku Abayomi Noah (MSc, LLM) has officially declared his intention to run for the House of Representatives, Badagry Federal Constituency, under Peoples Democratic Party PDP. Promised comprehensive "Eighth Mission for Badagry" blueprint, including free education transport, a federal medical center, land rights protection, and youth empowerment programs.

The declaration was made public during a well-attended press conference held in Badagry, where the legal practitioner and community advocate formally unveiled his ambitious "Eight Mission for Badagry" (MB) blueprint, promising a new era of good governance, federal presence, and grassroots empowerment for the people of Badagry.

"I stand before you today not just as a candidate, but as a son of Badagry who understands the struggles, the aspirations, and the untapped potential of this great constituency," Noah declared before journalists, party faithful, and community stakeholders. "Badagry deserves more than just representation; it deserves transformation, and I am here to deliver it."

Medemaku's declaration was anchored on a robust eight-point agenda designed to address critical infrastructure deficits, social welfare gaps, and economic empowerment needs facing Badagry residents. Each mission represents a strategic pillar aimed at repositioning the constituency for sustainable development.

The cornerstone of Noah's campaign is the Federal Presence Initiative, which seeks to attract critical federal government projects to Badagry. He outlined a comprehensive list of infrastructure projects he would facilitate through effective lawmaking and strategic lobbying if elected.

"Through the instrument of lawmaking and lobbying, I will ensure the commencement of work on the site allotted for the building of the Federal Medical Center in Badagry," Noah announced. "This is not just about healthcare; it is about dignity, access, and saving lives that are currently being lost due to the absence of federal health infrastructure in our community."

The legal practitioner also promised to facilitate the reconstruction of the Mowo-Ikoga road, a critical artery that has suffered years of neglect and decay.

"We cannot speak of development when our roads are impassable. The Mowo-Ikoga road will be reconstructed, and Badagrians will finally experience the relief they deserve," he emphasized.

Educational Transformation: From Airforce Base to Degree Awarding Institution

In a move that could revolutionize educational opportunities in Badagry, Noah pledged to facilitate the upgrading of the Airforce Base and Institute in Owode-Apa to a degree-awarding institution, with a long-term vision of transforming it into a full-fledged Airforce University.

"This is not just about military training; it is about academic excellence. Our youths deserve world-class educational opportunities right here in Badagry, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that the Airforce Institute attains university status," Medemaku stated.

Connecting Communities: The Badagry-Ipokia Link Bridge

One of the most ambitious projects outlined by the aspirant is the construction of a link bridge between Badagry Local Government in Lagos State and Ipokia Local Government via Itohon in Badagry.

"I will collaborate with my counterpart from Ogun State to ensure that this project becomes a reality," Noah declared. "This bridge is not just about connectivity; it is about economic integration, cultural exchange, and unlocking the economic potential of both states. When Badagry thrives, Lagos thrives, and when Lagos thrives, Nigeria thrives."

Tourism Development: Harnessing Badagry's Rich Heritage

Noah also committed to facilitating Federal Government presence in Badagry's tourism sector, recognizing the constituency's immense historical and cultural significance.

"Badagry is the cradle of Nigeria's history, yet we have not fully harnessed this potential. I will ensure that the federal government invests in our tourism sector, creating jobs and showcasing our rich heritage to the world," he explained.

Indigent Rescue Movement (IRM) – Protecting the Vulnerable

Demonstrating a deep commitment to social welfare, Medemaku unveiled the Indigent Rescue Movement, a program designed to protect individuals whose rights have been infringed by law enforcement agencies, landlords, tenants, and other entities.

"This movement will take care of individuals whose rights have been violated. Whether you are a tenant facing wrongful eviction, a citizen whose rights have been trampled by law enforcement, or an indigent person residing within the constituency, we will be there for you," Medemaku assured.

In a groundbreaking provision, the IRM will provide monthly stipends of N5000 to every person aged 70 years and above residing in the constituency.

"The elderly deserve our respect and care. N5000 might seem small, but for an aged person in our community, it can make a significant difference," he said.

Noah also pledged to take care of the medical needs of indigent pregnant women and citizens, emphasizing that this was not a new initiative but an expansion of his ongoing personal humanitarian efforts.

"This is something I have been doing already; it is not a new thing. I already have people I am supporting in my little capacity. The House of Representatives office will only help me to reach more people," he explained.

Land Rescue Team (LRT) – Protecting Property Rights

Addressing one of the most pressing concerns in Badagry, Noah announced the establishment of a Land Rescue Team to investigate and collate all government-acquired lands and protect the rights of landowners.

"Seeing people's houses destroyed by government agencies and corporate bodies because of wrongful land acquisition is pathetic," Medemaku lamented. "I will set up this team to investigate and collate all government-acquired lands with the help of the Surveyor General's Office and furnish any interested individual with the necessary facts."

The aspirant also promised to collaborate with his state counterparts to ensure that all lands acquired by government but not utilized be released to the family landowners.

"This is about justice. It is about protecting the heritage of our people. Land is life, and we must protect it," he declared.

Young Students Initiative (YSD) – Investing in the Future

Recognizing the critical importance of education, Noah unveiled the Young Students Initiative, a comprehensive program designed to support pupils and students across Badagry.

"Free buses will be provided for pupils and students in every community having a distance and motorable road of 5 kilometers and above," Noah announced. "The buses shall operate between 6:30 am and 8:30 am in the morning and 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm in the evening on every school day."

The initiative also includes annual inter-school competitions in the form of quizzes, debates, and sports.

"We must catch them young and groom them for greatness. These competitions will not only foster academic excellence but also build character, teamwork, and community spirit," he said.

Badagry Development Fund (BDF) – Empowering Youth and Artisans

The Badagry Development Fund, also known as the Youth Development Fund, represents Noah's commitment to economic empowerment.

"This fund will be accessed by both indigent students who intend to acquire tertiary education and the youths who are artisans and want to acquire work equipment," he explained.

Aspiring farmers will receive a grant or loan of N300,000 to pursue their agricultural dreams.

"We will give N300,000 to youths with a passion for farming. Agriculture is the backbone of any economy, and we must support our young farmers," Noah stated.

The physically challenged will also benefit from the fund through various forms of empowerment, ensuring that no one is left behind in Badagry's development journey.

Badagry Sports Initiative (BSI) – Fostering Unity Through Sports

With a vision to harness talent and foster community unity, Noah unveiled the **Badagry Sports Initiative**, which includes the construction of a mini-stadium through self-help and constituency allowance.

"I will ensure that a mini-stadium is built in Badagry. This is not just about sports; it is about providing a platform for our youths to showcase their talents and keep them away from social vices," he said.

The initiative will organize periodic competitions in field, track, and indoor sporting events, including football and video games.

"We will sponsor inter-community competitions twice a year to harness necessary talents in sports and foster inter-community unity. Sports bring people together, and Badagry needs that unity now more than ever," Noah emphasized.

 Competent and Articulate Representation (CAR) – "The MAN Shall Give You a CAR!"

In a powerful conclusion to his declaration, Noah promised the people of Badagry Competent and Articulate Representation, deploying his training as a lawyer for effective and efficient lawmaking.

"I promise the good people of Badagry a Competent and Articulate Representation. I shall deploy my training as a lawyer into effective and efficient lawmaking for the benefit of Badagry and Badagrians," he declared.

Additional Promise: Facilitating Study Abroad Opportunities

In a move that could transform the lives of countless Badagry youths, Medemaku promised to facilitate study abroad opportunities for at least 10 students annually.

"I will make sure I facilitate study abroad for at least 10 students a year, which will mean 40 students in four years. The turnover effect on Badagry will be enormous," he said. "This is what I singlehandedly did for myself, so it's not rocket science".

Noah emphasized the brilliance of Badagry youths and the need for encouragement.

"Our youths are very brilliant; all they need is encouragement. My target is to make sure I build independent-minded youths like myself, where their sources of survival will not influence their decisions, and most importantly, speaking up for themselves," he concluded.

"Badagry deserves the best, and I am committed to giving nothing less than my absolute best," Noah declared. "The journey to a new Badagry begins now, and I invite every Badagrian to join me on this journey."

The Man Called Bonu

By: Sewanu J. Isaac

Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu 

‘There are people who get into politics because they want power, and there are people who get into politics because they want to make a difference.’ For me, Hon. Solomon Saanu Bonu belongs to the second category.

As I celebrate the birthday of Hon. Solomon Saanu Bonu today, I cannot help but reflect on a man whose love for Badagry and its people has remained constant through the years.

Many people know him today as the member representing Badagry Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly. Some know him as ‘Star Boy’. Others still call him ‘SA Badagry’, a name he earned during his days as Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu because of how passionately he always spoke for Badagry and pushed for the interests of our people.

My first personal encounter with Hon. Bonu was in 2020 during the CityMood Badagry Social Media Awards held at Sycomore Hotel, Badagry. It remains a memorable moment for me because the Isaac Sewanu Educational Foundation emerged as the winner of the Best Use of Social Media Award, and Hon. Bonu was the one who presented the award to us. At the time, it was simply an award presentation. Looking back today, I see it as my first encounter with a man whose passion for Badagry and commitment to its people would become evident to all.

What I admire most about Hon. Bonu is not just the projects attached to his name but his ability to get things done. His lobbying skills have always stood out. Even as a legislator, he has shown that good leadership is not always about making noise but about building relationships and using them to attract development to your people.

Communities that lived in darkness for years can testify to this. Students who have benefited from his bursary programme can testify to this. Families whose roads have been rehabilitated can testify to this. Young people who have received opportunities through his initiatives can testify to this. I also know a number of people who secured jobs through Hon. Bonu’s lobbying efforts, and that speaks volumes about his willingness to use his connections to create opportunities for others.

Long before becoming a member of the Assembly, he was already paying bursaries to students. That commitment did not start with his election; it started with his love for education and his belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed. To the best of my knowledge, no Special Adviser from Badagry had done that at the scale he did.

Hon. Solomon Saanu Bonu has shown resilience, dedication and an uncommon commitment to Badagry. Through challenges and criticisms, he has remained focused on service.

And to those who may be wondering, let me say this clearly: the masses did not reject you. Your work has spoken for you. The communities you have touched speak for you. The students whose dreams you have supported speak for you. The lives you have impacted speak for you.

The man called Bonu is not perfect, but he is a man who has consistently shown love for his people and a willingness to fight for the progress of Badagry.

For that, I say thank you.

Thank you for all you have done.  

Thank you for all you are doing.  

And thank you for all you are still going to do.

May your passion for Badagry never fade, and may history remember you as one of the sons of Badagry who genuinely cared.

Happy birthday, Star Boy!

May your best years of service still lie ahead, and may your love for Badagry continue to inspire generations to come.

2027 Shockwaves: APM Unveils Lagos Governorship Candidate, Ojo Reps, Makinde as Presidential Candidate

By: Manoah Kikekon

OJO, LAGOS – Nigeria’s political chessboard is witnessing a dramatic reshuffle as the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) officially unveiled its full suite of candidates for the 2027 general elections in a high-energy ceremony at Ojo Local Government Area. The event, which drew a crowd of enthusiastic supporters and political defectors, signaled the party’s intent to challenge established giants, coinciding with the surging momentum of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s presidency.

In a move that caught many political observers off guard, the APM presented Laja Adeoye as its consensus flagbearer for the Lagos State Governorship seat. Simultaneously, the party solidified its legislative ambitions by unveiling Akogun-Abudu Akinlola Olumayowa, a former Labour Party chairmanship candidate, as its  flagbearer for the Ojo Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat.

Akogun-Abudu Akinlola Olumayowa 

Olumayowa’s defection from the Labour Party to clinch the APM ticket is being hailed as a major coup for the rising party. Speaking to a rapt audience, the newly minted Reps candidate emphasized his grassroots loyalty over political ambition.

Laja Adeoye

“This is not about changing parties for personal gain; it is about changing the narrative of representation in Ojo,” Olumayowa declared. “The APM has offered a platform where the people’s voice comes before party hierarchy. I am not here to experiment; I am here to liberate Ojo Federal Constituency from the grip of distant politicians.”

The event also saw Hon. Olalekan Yusuf Akinpelu secure the party’s ticket for the Ojo Constituency I seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly, former Labour Party Councillorship candidate for Ward K Iba LCDA. AMP Party elders described the trio as "credible, battle-tested, and deeply rooted in community development."

Hon. Olalekan Yusuf Akinpelu 

While the unveiling of local candidates provided the spark, the electricity in the air was fueled by the party’s growing national profile. Political analysts suggest that the APM is rapidly transforming into the "Third Force" in the Southwest, largely due to its adoption of Governor Seyi Makinde as its consensus presidential candidate for 2027.

Governor Makinde, who was not physically present but was represented by senior party liaisons, is reportedly spearheading a massive realignment of opposition political structures across the region. Following his pragmatic fallout with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership, Makinde appears to be leveraging the APM’s ballot structure to build a formidable coalition.

Seyi Makinde 

A senior APM chieftain, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal strategy, revealed the scale of the movement.

"Governor Makinde is not just a candidate; he is a movement. Since we flagged off the ‘Makinde for President’ project, we have seen an unprecedented influx of former PDP and Labour Party stalwarts in Ogun, Osun, and Lagos," the source said. "The people of the Southwest are tired of being marginalized in the presidential power-sharing formula. With Makinde on our ticket, the APM has become the home for strategic progressives in 2027."

The political calculation for the APM in Lagos is clear: use the wave of Makinde’s presidential appeal to anchor down-ballot victories. For the Ojo Federal Constituency, Olumayowa’s candidacy poses a direct threat to the incumbent, promising a shift from "ceremonial representation" to aggressive legislative action.

Party members celebrated the inauguration of the newly elected APM executives in Ojo, describing it as the formal burial of political apathy in the area. As the 2027 election cycle heats up, the APM is betting that the combination of a strong Southwest presidential candidate and hyper-local grassroots leaders will rewrite the electoral map of Lagos State.

With Makinde’s team already deep in consultation with political actors across the region, the APM has officially served notice: 2027 will not be business as usual.

Badagry General Hospital Makes Urgent Appeal for Voluntary Donors

By: 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a critical move to bolster local healthcare reserves, the Management of General Hospital Badagry has called on residents of the community and surrounding areas to embrace regular, voluntary blood donation. The appeal aims to meet the high demand for blood during emergencies and protect patients from preventable deaths.

The call to action was made on Tuesday by the Medical Director and CEO of General Hospital Badagry, Dr. Oluseyi Adesola, during a fresh blood donation drive. The event was organized in partnership with the Lagos Blood Donation Drive Initiative and supervised by the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS).

Dr. Adesola emphasized that blood cannot be artificially manufactured or mass-produced, making human kindness the only source for this life-saving resource.

"Blood is not a commodity that can be purchased by anybody, nor can it be manufactured by anyone; rather, it has to be donated by people to save others' lives in critical circumstances," Dr. Adesola stated.

The Medical Director also cleared up a common misconception regarding hospital fees, clarifying that when patients are asked to make a financial contribution, they are paying for the rigorous screening required to ensure the blood is safe for use, not for the blood itself.

"Voluntary blood donation from members of the community is a healthy way to sustain the availability of needed blood to patients who need blood to survive different conditions," he added.

Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service, Mrs. Tope Balogun, Head of the Health Education Department, praised the community members who showed up voluntarily. She highlighted a structural challenge facing the state's healthcare system: the demand for blood across Lagos remains incredibly high, while the supply continues to lag behind.

Mrs. Balogun reminded the public that donating blood is not just a community service, but a personal health benefit that stimulates fresh blood cell production in the donor, ultimately making the entire community safer against medical disasters.

Local government officials also rallied behind the cause. Mr. John Gandonu, the Supervisor for Health for Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA)—representing the Executive Chairman—expressed his excitement at the turnout and urged more residents to step forward.

"Always show concern for others, and be ready to always come out to donate blood to support the facility in the interest of society," Mr. Gandonu urged.

Despite a heavy downpour, the exercise recorded an impressive turnout. The donation process was structured to ensure maximum safety and comfort, guiding participants through a streamlined routine

Mr. Joseph Hunye, Coordinator of the Lagos Blood Donation Drive 2.0, expressed his deep gratitude to the hospital management and the state team for their resilience through the poor weather.

He confirmed that over 120 donors successfully passed the rigorous medical screenings and were deemed fit to give blood. To show appreciation for their life-saving gestures, the initiative provided palliatives and tokens of gratitude to every successful donor.

The management of General Hospital Badagry continues to encourage the public to visit the facility and make blood donation a regular habit, ensuring that when the "crucial hours" arrive, no life is lost for lack of a matching pint.

Lagos Blood Drive 2.0 Smashes Records to Save Lives in Badagry and Ikeja

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Joseph Hunte the Initiator of Badagry blood Drive and pint of blood 

LAGOS, NIGERIA — In a major boost to emergency healthcare delivery, the Lagos Blood Drive Initiative (LBDI) has successfully harvested 166 pints of life-saving blood during its highly anticipated Lagos Blood Drive 2.0 campaign. The intensive two-day voluntary donation exercise, which spanned across Badagry and Ikeja, marks a historic milestone in the state's ongoing efforts to secure its healthcare supply chain.

The life-saving campaign was orchestrated by the LBDI under the leadership of its Convener and Executive Director, Mr. Hunye Minasu Joseph. To ensure maximum reach and professional handling, the initiative partnered with heavyweights in the state's medical sector, including the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS), General Hospital Badagry, and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja.

The first phase of the drive kicked off on June 9, 2026, at General Hospital, Badagry. Despite a heavy, unrelenting morning downpour that threatened to disrupt the event, local residents showed remarkable resilience. Over 130 enthusiastic volunteers turned up to support the cause. Following rigorous medical screenings to ensure donor safety, 74 residents were certified fit, yielding an immediate 74 pints of blood.

"Blood cannot be manufactured and depends entirely on willing donors," emphasized Dr. Oluseyi Adesola, the Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer of General Hospital, Badagry. He praised the voluntary donors, clarifying that any standard administrative charges associated with transfusion services are strictly utilized to cover essential screening and processing costs to guarantee safe blood.

The momentum surged even higher during the second phase on June 11, 2026, at LASUTH, Ikeja. An overwhelming crowd of 208 prospective donors swarmed the venue. By the conclusion of the medical screenings, 92 pints were successfully added to the bank. While time constraints and strict medical protocols prevented some eager participants from donating, the overall atmosphere remained charged with community spirit.

The immediate impact of the Ikeja drive was felt almost instantly. Shortly after the collection process wrapped up, three pints of the newly donated blood were rushed to a patient awaiting urgent surgery, perfectly illustrating the life-and-death stakes of the initiative.

"This reinforced the importance of sustaining voluntary blood donation efforts, particularly for patients who may struggle to afford the cost of obtaining blood during medical emergencies," stated Mr. Hunye Minasu Joseph. He described the prompt intervention as one of the most rewarding moments of the entire campaign.

The success of Lagos Blood Drive 2.0 has drawn high praise from top health officials, but experts warn that the demand for safe blood remains a continuous challenge in a mega-city of millions.

Mrs. Tope Balogun, Head of the Health Education Department at the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS), underscored the critical nature of the situation. She noted that regular, uncoerced voluntary blood donations are the only sustainable way to meet the rapidly expanding medical needs across Lagos healthcare facilities.

To appreciate the immense selflessness of the community, the organizers made sure no one left empty-handed. All 166 successful donors received welfare packages containing essential food items provided by the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee. Furthermore, all 338 registered participants—including those deferred for medical reasons—were provided with cooked meals, branded T-shirts, blood tonics, bottled water, and official tokens of appreciation from the LBDI.

With the unwavering backing of the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the organizers are urging the public not to let this be a one-time event. They are calling on all healthy residents to embrace voluntary blood donation as a regular civic duty, ensuring that no Lagosian loses their life due to a shortage of blood.

Angry Badagry Youths Protest Deplorable Mowo–Ikoga Road, Threaten Indefinite Occupation

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — Boiling frustration over a decade of infrastructural abandonment erupted into open defiance on Saturday as furious residents and youth groups hit the streets to protest the severe dilapidation of the Mowo–Ikoga road. The road serves as a critical link between Lagos and Ogun states, has deteriorated into a treacherous stretch of mud and craters, prompting protesters to issue a strict July 1 ultimatum to the government before they ground the axis completely.

The protest led by prominent legal practitioner and social activist Barrister Medemaku Abayomi Noah, the peaceful demonstrators marched through the worst-hit portions of the road. They chanted slogans and carried placards decrying what they described as systemic neglect by local, state, and federal authorities who have continually ignored the community’s worsening plight.

Addressing the crowd during the demonstration, Barrister Medemaku slammed political leaders for treating the lives and livelihoods of the residents with levity, warning that the time for polite appeals has passed.

"The situation on this road is entirely unacceptable. Political leaders at the local, state, and federal levels have offered nothing but empty promises while our people continue to suffer daily. We are going to sustain these demonstrations every single Saturday until concrete action is taken to begin full reconstruction," Medemaku said.

The activist further warned that if no visible construction equipment is deployed to the site by the end of June, the community will escalate its agitation to a total shutdown of the corridor.

"If no visible steps are taken by the end of June, residents will escalate their action by occupying this road indefinitely. We will turn it into a permanent sit-in protest until the government responds to our cries." Medemaku added.

The collapse of the Mowo-Ikoga axis has fundamentally disrupted daily life in the border community. According to residents, the road turns into an impassable swamp during the rainy season, leading to frequent accidents that have tragically claimed the lives of several school children and local commuters. Beyond the safety hazards, the gridlock has inflicted severe economic strain, skyrocketing transportation costs, and forcing local businesses to a standstill.

A commercial driver who joined the protest expressed deep resentment, noting that the community feels betrayed by the current administration, especially given the high hopes placed on political representatives during the last election cycle.

"We have endured years of hardship and disappointment despite making multiple appeals for intervention. Before the elections, we saw some temporary palliative works carried out before Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan took office. While those interventions once provided temporary relief, we expected a permanent, engineered solution after he assumed office. Many voters now feel completely let down by the continued poor condition of this road." Local Commercial Driver said.

Stranded commuters and passers-by loudly cheered the protesting youths, with many lamenting that a commute that should ordinarily take less than ten minutes now takes over thirty minutes of punishing, vehicle-damaging transit. Many onlookers targeted their grievances directly at their federal representative, pointing out that years have passed with no tangible legislative intervention for the constituency.

"This road is exactly why we voted for Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan as our House of Representatives member. But after three years in office, what has he actually done for his people? You only see these politicians when an election is around the corner, making promises of heaven and earth. The moment they emerge victorious, they forget every single promise they made to the masses," Local Resident & Onlooker.

With the youth promising weekly protests every Saturday throughout June, the tension in the Mowo-Ikoga axis is palpable. All eyes are now on the Lagos State Government, the Federal Ministry of Works, and representative Hon. Sesi Whingan to see if they will deploy construction crews before the July 1 deadline triggers an indefinite civil occupation.

Caroline Kuwayenu Slams Viral Ojude Oba 2026 Smoking Incident

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Caroline Kuwayenu and Women smoking at Ojude Oba 

While the vibrant colors, rhythmic drumming, and unmatched elegance of Ojude Oba 2026 captivated millions globally, a viral video of an elderly woman smoking openly at the festival has sparked intense public debate. Joining the conversation is prominent mental health advocate and peace ambassador, Ambassador Caroline Aderonke Kuwayenu, who has strongly condemned the act, warning of the dangerous message it sends to Nigeria's youth.

Kuwayenu, who serves as the President of Egbe AROBAYO OBIRIN ADIMULA of Ijeshaland, as well as a Counseling Psychologist and Ambassador of Peace, Conscience, and Global Education, expressed deep concern over how the incident overshadows the true essence of the historic cultural festival.

"Ojude Oba 2026 was meant to be a celebration of culture, unity, and pride," Kuwayenu stated. "But the image of a woman smoking openly at the event and going viral says something we can’t ignore."

The viral footage, which has trended across TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with severe socio-economic hurdles. According to Ambassador Kuwayenu, influencers and public figures must realize that their actions do not exist in a vacuum, especially when the younger generation is watching closely.

"Nigeria is already battling too much: kidnapping, insecurity, broken systems," she noted. "Our young people are looking for direction in a noisy world. The last thing they need is to see destructive habits being normalized by people they admire or aspire to be like."

She emphasized that attending a major cultural showcase like Ojude Oba elevates an individual from a private citizen to a public representative of heritage.

"Whether we accept it or not, when you show up at a major cultural event, you’re not just living for yourself. You become part of the message the next generation receives. If what goes viral is smoking, drinking, or chasing clout over substance, that’s what gets copied."

As a counseling psychologist and mental health advocate, Kuwayenu urged public figures and festival attendees to prioritize substance over digital clout. With Nigerian youth heavily consuming social media content, she stressed that modern influence must be tethered to responsibility.

"We don’t need more bad examples right now. We need people who understand that influence is responsibility. The clothes you wear, the habits you flaunt, the moments you put out young people are watching and learning."

Ojude Oba remains one of West Africa's most prestigious cultural exhibitions, drawing thousands of visitors to Ijebu-Ode annually to honor the Awujale of Ijebuland. Kuwayenu concluded her statement by calling on Nigerians to guard the integrity of such traditions fiercely, using them to inspire rather than degrade societal values.

"Ojude Oba should show the best of Yoruba culture and Nigerian values, not blur the lines for attention," Kuwayenu urged. "At a time when the country is fighting for safety and direction, let’s give our children something worth imitating. Be the kind of role model Nigeria needs today, not another problem it has to manage tomorrow."