2027: Why Sesi and Bonu Continuity is the Key to Badagry’s Developmental Future

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE – Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, a prominent stakeholder and concerned indigene, has issued a strategic "Call to the Good People of Badagry," advocating for the re-election of two key legislative figures: Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan and Hon. Solomon Bonu.

Central to this advocacy is the launch of the Bonu–Sesi Again Movement 2027 (BSAM 2027), a grassroots initiative designed to challenge the long-standing "single-term mindset" that Apata argues has historically hampered the region's progress.

For decades, Badagry has often cycled through representatives every four years, regardless of their performance. According to Hon. Apata, this pattern creates a "newcomer syndrome" where Badagry’s voice in the chambers both at the Federal House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly is constantly reset to zero.

Legislative efficacy is built on seniority, committee influence, and established networks within ministries. When a representative is replaced after only one term, the constituency loses the momentum and the political capital that the incumbent spent years cultivating. BSAM 2027 posits that for Badagry to transition from a "land of potential" to a "land of prosperity," it must embrace leadership stability.

Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan (Federal), Representing the Badagry Federal Constituency in Abuja, Whingan has gained recognition for his focus on human capital. His initiatives in digital literacy and youth entrepreneurship are viewed as essential for integrating Badagry’s youth into the modern global economy.

Hon. Solomon Bonu (State), At the Lagos State House of Assembly, Bonu has leveraged his background in governance and tourism to advocate for the preservation of Badagry’s heritage while pushing for infrastructural expansion.

Together, Apata argues, these two leaders provide a balanced approach to development that covers both national policy and local grassroots needs.

Badagry stands at a crossroads of immense economic opportunity. From its status as a gateway for cross-border trade to its untapped maritime and cultural tourism potential, the region requires "marathon leadership" rather than a "sprint."

The Bonu–Sesi Again Movement asserts that a second term will allow these representatives to:

1. Complete ongoing projects that often stall during leadership transitions.

2. Strengthen legislative influence to attract larger federal and state budgetary allocations.

3. Solidify partnerships with private investors interested in the Badagry tourism and tech sectors.

"A second term is therefore not merely a political reward; it is a strategic investment in the future of Badagry," Apata stated during his address.

The movement is calling on youth organizations, traditional institutions, and professional stakeholders to look beyond short-term sentiments. The goal of BSAM 2027 is to foster a political culture where performance is the primary metric for continuity.

President Tinubu Challenges Media to Scrutinize States and Local Governments

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Bola Ahmed Tinubu 

ABUJA, NIGERIA – As the 2026 Ramadan season draws to a close, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a direct challenge to Nigeria’s media industry: follow the money. During a high-profile Iftar gathering at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa on Friday, the President urged media proprietors and executives to extend their investigative spotlight beyond the federal level and hold subnational authorities accountable for their ballooning revenues.

The President’s appeal comes at a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey toward true fiscal federalism, following the landmark 2024 Supreme Court ruling that granted full financial autonomy to the country’s 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

President Tinubu emphasized that his administration has dismantled the barriers that previously hindered local governments from accessing their funds directly. "We’ve opened up the principle of federalism to the extent that local governments are now getting their money," the President stated.

However, he was quick to point out that with great power and great funding comes a heightened need for oversight. "How they use it is in your hands, so don’t bombard me alone. Look at local government too, and equally, the sub-national," he urged, noting that states are also currently in their strongest financial positions in decades.

Reflecting on the impact of his economic reforms, President Tinubu highlighted a significant shift in state-level stability. While many states historically relied on federal bailouts and loans to pay civil servants, the President claimed that era is effectively over.

"Today, there is no state that is borrowing to pay the salaries of employees," Tinubu declared. While acknowledging that current allocations may still feel insufficient given the economic climate, he stressed the importance of strategic management. "We have to manage what we have to sustain today, survive tomorrow, and make progress."

In a rare moment of personal candor, the President confessed that he is a "daily addict" of Nigerian newspapers. "There is no morning that I ever leave my house without going through the newspapers. I read all of you might not be in full detail, but the headline, the one that hit me," he disclosed.

He thanked the media for their relentless criticism, admitting he was "a little stubborn" at the start of his administration due to the volume of negative headlines. However, he credited this "barrage" with provoking the intellectual curiosity required of a leader who must perform. "You didn't spare me, but you challenged me," he told the executives.

Addressing the controversial removal of the petrol subsidy in May 2023, the President insisted the decision was a matter of survival. He argued that at the time he took office, Nigeria was "cheating on the edge of bankruptcy."

"I cannot look back other than make corrections as I move along, save the nation, and bring it back from the brink," he said. He pointed to current improvements in foreign exchange management and inflation control as evidence that the country has successfully been pulled back from the precipice of total economic collapse.

Acknowledging the "almost impossible" challenge of sourcing funds in the current economic landscape, President Tinubu expressed empathy for the operational hurdles facing media houses. He specifically addressed the issue of tariffs affecting the industry.

"The question of tariff was discussed this afternoon," Tinubu revealed. "What I cannot report back here is whether I took action in the area that affected you or not, but if I missed that, I’ll go back to rectify."

CYID Launches Three-Month "Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab" for Badagry Youth Empowerment

 By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a bold move to combat unemployment and foster self-reliance, the Centre for Youth Integrated Development (CYID) has officially launched a comprehensive, free vocational training program for the youth of Badagry. 

Tagged the Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab, the initiative offers a three-month intensive curriculum designed to turn raw talent into professional expertise.

The program comes at a critical time when digital and creative skills are becoming the primary currency in the global job market. By offering high-value training at no cost, CYID is bridging the gap for young people who have the passion to learn but lack the financial means to enroll in private academies.

The Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab is not a one-size-fits-all program. It features five distinct tracks tailored to meet both traditional and modern industry demands:

Visual Art Class: For the next generation of painters and fine artists.

Graphic Design Class: Focused on digital branding and visual communication.

Web Design Class: Teaching the fundamentals of the digital architecture.

Bag Design and Production: A hands-on craft class for fashion entrepreneurs.

Advanced Fashion Class: Elevating local tailoring to international standards.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the initiative, the pioneer of CYID, Mr. Victor Aihawu, emphasized that the program is about more than just technical ability. "The Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab aims to equip young people in Badagry with practical skills that lead to income generation," Aihawu stated.

He further explained that the training is integrated with mentoring and personal development sessions. "We want to build confidence, discipline, and clarity of purpose. This helps our participants make informed life choices and pursue productive paths within their own communities," he added.

To ensure a high level of commitment, CYID has announced a merit-based reward system. Plans are already in motion to reward the best student from each class upon completion of the three-month journey.

Recognizing that skill without tools can lead to frustration, Mr. Aihawu revealed that the center is currently in talks with various institutions to provide start-up tools for the beneficiaries. This support system is designed to ensure that graduates can move immediately from the classroom to the marketplace.

In a direct appeal to the young people of Badagry and surrounding communities, Mr. Aihawu offered a powerful piece of advice on the value of vocational training. "Skill is the only tool that guarantees a sustainable future void of dependence on anyone," he noted.

He urged the youth to view skill development as a long-term investment in their personal freedom. By mastering a craft, he believes the youth can escape the cycle of poverty and become employers of labor themselves, rather than perpetual job seekers.

The Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab is strategically positioned to revitalize the local economy of Badagry. By training almost 60 individuals at a time in various classes, the program is effectively seeding the community with new businesses and digital service providers.

The physical center itself has become a hub of activity, with modern equipment and a conducive learning environment that reflects the professional standards the students are expected to uphold. For many participants, this is their first encounter with high-end graphic software or advanced industrial sewing machines.

Kidnap Survivor Recounts Ordeal of Farm Abduction and How Kwara Gvnt Free Church Victims

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

In a gripping and emotional revelation, a farm manager has broken his silence regarding his harrowing abduction in Ekiti State, providing a rare and terrifying glimpse into the operations of kidnapping syndicates in Southwest Nigeria.

The survivor, who shared his story on the popular Honest Bunch podcast, detailed the events of October 2025, describing a journey characterized by extreme violence, psychological torture, and the grim reality of life in a forest "den." His account has reignited discussions regarding the escalating insecurity and the brutal tactics employed by bandits in the region.

The ordeal began abruptly while the victim was overseeing operations as a farm manager. He recounted how armed bandits stormed the location with terrifying speed, immediately utilizing lethal force to establish control. One of his colleagues was shot twice—once in the stomach and once in the chest—an event that shifted the victim’s reality into a state of pure survival.

"I thought it was a joke," he recalled. "Immediately, I started urinating on myself. I thought, 'So this is the way I’m going to die as well.' I couldn't stop shivering." The sheer brutality of the initial attack was designed to break the spirits of the captives instantly.

Perhaps the most haunting aspect of his story was the kidnappers' total lack of regard for human life. Shortly after the shooting, the victim and three other young men were forced to perform a gruesome task: moving the body of the man who had been shot.

"They told us we should dispose of his body in the bush. We took the body while he was still vomiting blood," he shared. This forced participation in the aftermath of a killing served as a psychological weapon, reinforcing the kidnappers' threat that he would face a similar fate if their demands were not met.

Once in the forest, the kidnappers issued their ultimatum. The victim was ordered to contact his family and demand ₦55 million for his freedom. The instruction was clear: the money was the only thing standing between him and a shallow grave in the bush.

This high-value demand highlights the economic motivations behind the kidnapping industry, where human lives are traded like commodities, and families are pushed to the brink of financial ruin to save their loved ones.

The survivor's account also shed light on a "viral" abduction involving a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) congregation. On the evening of his first day in captivity, the camp swelled as 38 new victims were marched in, including elderly women, young children, and men.

"One of the ladies told me they were just at church," he explained. "They were mid-service when they started hearing shots and were taken." This massive influx of captives turned the forest den into a crowded camp of terror, where different groups of victims found themselves united by a shared tragedy.

The 38 church members spent approximately five days in the den before their sudden release. While the official stance of many governments is a "no-ransom" policy, the survivor revealed a claim made by an "errand boy" associated with the kidnappers.

According to this source, the 38 captives were released after the Kwara State government reportedly paid a staggering ₦350 million. While these claims remain unverified by official state spokespersons, the survivor noted that the information came from a Fulani boy within the gang who had become somewhat "friendly" with the captives.

Comr. Jaiyesimi Mathew Emerges as NABAS President in Historic Leadership Transitio

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a vibrant display of democratic excellence and youthful vigor, the National Association of Badagry Students (NABAS) has officially recorded a successful leadership transition. The momentous event, held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, marked the dawn of a new administrative chapter for the apex student body in the ancient coastal city.

The transition ceremony took place at the hallowed chambers of the Badagry Local Government Secretariat, drawing a diverse crowd of student advocates, political leaders, and academic icons. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation as the association sought to build upon its growing legacy of grassroots intellectualism.

The highlight of the event was the official swearing-in of the new executive council. Comr. Jaiyesimi Mathew Whenayon emerged as the new President, while Rt. Hon. Hunsa Sewedo Oluwatosin was inaugurated as the Speaker of the House. They take over from the outgoing duo of Comr. Gbeyon Ayomide Sewenu and Rt. Hon. Senemede Abel, who were lauded for their resilience in steering the association’s affairs.

In his inaugural remarks, President Whenayon pledged to run an inclusive administration that prioritizes the welfare of every Badagry student, both at home and in the diaspora. He emphasized that his tenure would focus on academic empowerment, digital literacy, and fostering a stronger bond between students and local stakeholders.

Adding a historic dimension to the transition was the official launch of the NABAS Magazine (Maiden Edition). This landmark publication is designed to serve as a repository of the association’s rich heritage, documenting the activities, achievements, and intellectual contributions of Badagry’s finest minds.

The magazine was jointly unveiled by the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, and the Grand Patron of NABAS, Hon. Olusegun Adeniran Onilude. The publication was described as a vital tool for storytelling, ensuring that the strides made by the student union are preserved for future generations.

The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, delivered a powerful keynote address that resonated with the themes of responsibility and sacrifice. Represented at the event, the Chairman congratulated the outgoing team for finishing strong and the new team for their courage to lead.

"Leadership is fundamentally about service and sacrifice," Hunpe remarked. He charged the new executives to remain focused and embrace the spirit of teamwork, noting that a divided house cannot achieve meaningful development. He urged the leadership to be the light that guides their peers toward a better future.

A critical point in the Chairman’s address was the reminder of the primary purpose of being a student. He admonished the members of NABAS to remain dedicated to their academic pursuits. "Ensure that union activities do not become a distraction from your primary responsibilities," he warned, stressing that the true value of a student leader lies in their academic excellence.

The Grand Patron of NABAS and immediate past Chairman of the local government, Hon. Olusegun Adeniran Onilude, expressed deep satisfaction with the progress of the association. He recalled the challenging times when the association was revived during his tenure, noting that seeing it thrive today is a source of immense joy.

He specifically commended the efforts of Hon. Sewede Pot-Balogun, the former Supervisor for Education, and the Caretaker Committee led by Comr. Ajape Abdusomad. Their roles in the resuscitation and strengthening of the association were identified as the foundation upon which the current successes are built.

Hon. Onilude encouraged the Whenayon-led administration to sustain the momentum. "The foundation has been laid; your job is to build a structure that stands the test of time," he said. He assured the students of his continued mentorship and commitment to the growth of NABAS, promising to remain an advocate for their interests at higher levels of governance.

"Give to Gain" Summit Challenges Lagos Women to Redefine Leadership through Service

 By: Manoah Kikekon

IBA, OJO — LAGOS – In an era where success is frequently equated with personal accumulation and individual status, a transformative gathering of women in the Iba area of Ojo, Lagos, has proposed a radical shift in perspective. The International Women’s Day 2026 Summit, hosted by Deborah International Outreach, delivered a resounding message: the most potent form of leadership is rooted in the philosophy of "Giving to Gain."

The summit, held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, served as a high-impact forum for women across various professional and social strata. Organized to commemorate the global International Women’s Day season, the event focused on the premise that true influence is not seized, but earned through consistent service, mentorship, and community investment.

The convener of the summit, Bunmi Onilude, a respected advocate for female empowerment, opened the event with a stirring call to action. She challenged the participants to look beyond the immediate rewards of their careers and businesses, urging them instead to consider the long-term legacy of their contributions to society.

According to Mrs. Onilude, the "Give to Gain" theme is not merely a catchy slogan but a strategic approach to life and leadership. She emphasized that when women give whether it be their time, their expertise, or their resources they are essentially planting seeds for a future characterized by loyalty, influence, and collective prosperity.

The summit addressed a critical gap in modern leadership training: the "Otherish" approach to support. Speakers argued that the traditional "winner-takes-all" mentality is becoming obsolete in a world that increasingly values collaboration and social responsibility.

"Giving is an investment that yields gains such as loyalty, support, and influence," Onilude stated during her keynote address. She noted that women who prioritize uplifting others often find themselves naturally elevated to positions of greater authority and respect within their communities.

A significant portion of the summit was dedicated to the importance of mentorship. Notable women leaders who joined the convener on stage shared personal anecdotes of how their willingness to mentor younger colleagues had eventually opened doors for their own advancement.

The speakers stressed that the future of Lagos and Nigeria at large depends on a generation of women who are willing to "pay it forward." By investing in the development of younger women today, the participants were told they are securing a more stable and responsible society for the generations to follow.

The summit moved beyond theoretical concepts, offering practical advice on how women can lead within their specific spheres of influence. Whether in the boardroom, the marketplace, or the home, attendees were encouraged to use their unique voices to advocate for positive change.

"You are not just individuals pursuing a paycheck," one speaker noted. "You are catalysts of change. Your smallest act of compassion can be the spark that inspires hope in a neighbor or a colleague." This focus on "micro-leadership" resonated with many attendees who felt empowered to start making changes in their immediate environments.

The event also highlighted the socio-economic benefits of female-led generosity. When women lead with a heart for service, the ripple effect is felt in improved community health, better educational outcomes for children, and more resilient local economies.

The participants were urged to see their businesses and careers not just as means of survival, but as platforms for community building. By integrating service into their professional lives, the women of Ojo are positioning themselves as the backbone of a "Greater Lagos" vision.

As the summit progressed, the atmosphere in Iba shifted from one of quiet reflection to vibrant energy. Many participants expressed that they had arrived at the event feeling burnt out by the pressures of modern life, but were leaving with a renewed sense of purpose.

"This summit has reminded me that my value isn't just in what I achieve, but in who I help," said one participant during a breakout session. This sentiment was echoed by many, who saw the "Give to Gain" philosophy as a remedy for the isolation and competition that often characterize the professional world.

As the world continues to celebrate the achievements of women this March, the gathering in Lagos stood out for its focus on character-based leadership. While other events focused on policy or technology, the Deborah International Outreach summit went back to the basics of human connection and ethics.

The event served as a poignant reminder that empowered women remain the most powerful force for societal transformation. When that power is channeled through the lens of generosity, the potential for growth is limitless.

The summit concluded with a clear summary of the "Gains" mentioned in the theme. These include: Loyalty: People are more likely to support leaders who have invested in them.

Influence: Authority is more effectively exercised when it is backed by a track record of service.

Legacy: True success is measured by the number of lives a leader has positively impacted.

Federal High Court Halts LAMATA’s Planned Demolition in Okokomaiko for Blue Line Depot

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAMATA and Court used to illustrate the story 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Federal High Court in Lagos has delivered a landmark ruling, granting an interim injunction to stop the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) from demolishing residential properties in the Okokomaiko area. 

The court order provides a massive sigh of relief for hundreds of families whose homes were slated for destruction to make way for the proposed Blue Line Train Depot.

Presiding Judge, Hon. Justice Musa Kakaki**, issued the order on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in response to Suit No: FHC/L/MISC/52/2026. 

The injunction effectively freezes all demolition, eviction, and acquisition activities by the state government and its agencies pending the final determination of the originating summons.

The court order specifically protects residents and properties located at Church Estate 1, Church Estate 2, Jubilee Estate, and the Igbeyin-Adun Community in the Ojo Local Government Area. The injunction restrains LAMATA, its agents, and officials from "invading, demolishing, pillaging, or vandalizing" the applicants' houses.

Beyond stopping the bulldozers, the court also granted an order of interim injunction restraining the respondents from any compulsory acquisition or taking possession of any interest in the applicants' lands and immovable properties. This move safeguards the residents' proprietary rights while the legal battle continues.

Justice Kakaki extended the injunction to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and all police officers attached to various formations. The court strictly forbade the police from "partaking, supervising, or providing any support or protection" to LAMATA officials for the purpose of eviction or demolition in the affected communities.

The enrollment of the court order, signed by Mrs. Okoro, Principal Executive Officer of the Federal High Court Ikoyi, ensures that law enforcement cannot be used as a tool to bypass the judicial process. This directive aims to prevent the often-forceful nature of state-led evictions in Lagos.

Despite the court’s intervention, a fresh wave of controversy has erupted following a publication on LAMATA’s official website on March 12, 2026. The agency announced it had commenced payment of "relocation assistance" to tenants affected by the acquisition. LAMATA officials Mrs. Ibironke Omorhirhi and Mr. Ayodipupo Quadri are reportedly monitoring the exercise to ensure transparency.

However, property owners have raised an alarm over this strategy. Landlords in the four affected estates argue that LAMATA is "compensating" tenants without the consent of the actual property owners. They contend that focusing on tenants is a tactical move to weaken the community’s collective resistance while the landlords’ grievances remain unaddressed.

The core of the dispute lies in the valuation of the properties. Property owners allege that their homes have not been given a realistic "like-for-like" valuation that would allow them to replicate their houses in comparable areas of Lagos.

"We have not been shown what values have been assigned as possible compensation," one resident stated. "How can LAMATA initiate payments when we don't even know if the projected sum is adequate? Why the rush for arbitrary demolition when the current designated train depot area still lies fallow and undeveloped?"

The applicants were represented by Femi Dodo, Esq., who moved the motion ex-parte on behalf of the residents. The lead affidavit was sworn to by Mr. Iniobong Edem Offiong, a retiree and resident of Igbehin Adun Community, who highlighted the extreme urgency of the situation.

The court has granted leave for the applicants to serve the injunction and originating summons on LAMATA at its Ketu-Ojota office and on the Commissioner of Police at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja. As the legal tug-of-war intensifies, the residents of Okokomaiko remain vigilant, holding onto the court's protection as their last line of defense against homelessness.