Lagos 2027: Massive Youth Mobilisation for Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA) To Hit Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Samuel Mawuyon Ajose 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The political landscape of Lagos State is heating up as youth leaders and grassroots organisers prepare for a major mobilisation rally in support of Mr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA) and his 2027 governorship ambition. The landmark event is scheduled to take place this Friday, 17th April 2026, in the heart of the Badagry Division.

The rally will be held at the Open Ground opposite the Nigeria French Language Village in Ajara, with supporters expected to arrive as early as 8:00 AM.

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A Unified Front for Badagry Division

This mobilisation marks a significant milestone in the "SMA for Governor" campaign, reflecting a growing demand for indigenous representation and youth-led political transformation. Organisers have confirmed that participants will be drawn from all **ten Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs)** within the Badagry Division, including:

Badagry LG, Olorunda LCDA, and Badagry West LCDA, Ojo LG, Iba LCDA, and Oto-Awori LCDA, Amuwo-Odofin LG and Oriade LCDA, and Ajeromi-Ifelodun LG and Ifelodun LCDA

The sheer scale of the event underscores SMA’s burgeoning influence across the IBILE regions, particularly among the younger demographic who view his candidacy as a catalyst for regional development.

Strategic Grassroots Engagement

The Friday exercise is more than just a rally; it serves as a strategic recruitment hub. Organisers are focusing on enrolling community volunteers who will spearhead field mobilisation and door-to-door outreach within their respective wards. 

By involving key stakeholders, including youth groups and transport unions, the campaign aims to build a robust structure that penetrates every neighbourhood in the division. 

"We are not just mobilising for a name; we are mobilising for a vision that prioritises the Badagry Division," one of the lead coordinators stated. "This Friday is about identifying the foot soldiers who will carry the message of hope to every corner of Lagos."

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Vandalised building and Leader of the land grabbers: Mr Jayeola Jimoh Togun, Baale Ajagungbale of Okaran communities. 

ADO-ODO/OTA, OGUN STATE – A major security crisis is brewing in the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area as residents of Okanran and 47 other Ogu-speaking communities have raised a frantic alarm over persistent attacks by suspected land grabbers. The embattled residents are calling for an immediate intervention from Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Federal Government, and security agencies to prevent a total breakdown of law and order.

The communities, boasting an ancestral history spanning over five generations, claim they are currently under siege by a group allegedly led by a Baale of the Akapo family. The residents accuse this group of orchestrating a campaign of intimidation, assault, and property destruction to forcibly annex their ancestral lands.

At the heart of the dispute is a claim to approximately 1,200 hectares of land. The communities allege that the group is using a "fraudulent gazette" purportedly issued during the administration of former Governor Gbenga Daniel to justify their actions. However, community leaders maintain that the legal justification being used is rooted in a chieftaincy dispute—not land ownership and that the Supreme Court had previously dismissed attempts to link the two.

"They are misrepresenting court rulings to terrorize us," one community leader stated. "Armed men frequently invade our villages, creating a climate of fear that has brought farming and trading our primary livelihoods—to a complete standstill."

The residents further alleged that some officials within the Bureau of Lands and Survey are complicit, accusing them of facilitating the appropriation of community land through falsified documentation.

The crisis is not new but has recently escalated to dangerous levels. Residents recalled a traumatic incident in 2011 where a young man was killed near a local primary school, leading to the school's closure. While a subsequent Peace Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) were signed between the communities and the Akapo family, residents claim the terms are no longer being honored.

Adding to their plight is a stark lack of government presence. The 48 affected communities decried years of systemic neglect, citing: Zero Infrastructure: A total absence of motorable roads and electricity. 

Educational Collapse: The only public school in the area has been destroyed, forcing children to trek to distant neighboring villages.

Healthcare Deficit: No accessible medical facilities for thousands of inhabitants.

Despite a recent appearance before a Grade One Customary Court in Ado-Odo on November 4, 2025, and a subsequent escalation to the Ogun State High Court, residents say the harassment continues. They noted that a court order of perpetual injunction was issued to restrain encroachment, yet armed groups allegedly continue to bypass these boundaries.

In an emotional "Save Our Souls" appeal, the Okanran communities including Okanran Balogun Tafin, Okanran Awole, Okanran Ayame, and 45 others demanded that the state government:

1.  Revoke the Disputed Gazette: Investigate the legitimacy of the land claims linked to the previous administration.

2.  Ensure Security: Deploy permanent security patrols to protect farmers and traders.

3.  Investigate the Bureau of Lands: Root out officials allegedly aiding land speculators.

Power is Taken, Not Given: Will Badagry Ever Produce a Lagos Governor?

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — The long-standing agitation for a Badagry-born Governor of Lagos State has gained unprecedented momentum recently. However, emerging political shifts suggest that the "Badagry for Governor" movement may face a significant setback due to internal party dynamics and the influence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership.

The "Anointed" Candidate and the GAC Influence

Recent findings indicate a strong determination within the APC government to overlook Badagry for the next gubernatorial ticket. Sources suggest the leadership’s "anointed" candidate is someone closely affiliated with the existing power structure, leaving the Badagry division in a precarious position.

The situation reached a climax during the IBILE Eko Foundation Summit 2026 held on Wednesday. During the event, His Royal Majesty, Aholu Agano Toniyon I, the Aholu of Aganmathen Kingdom, made a passionate plea for Divisional equity. 

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"It is high time a person from Badagry becomes the Governor to bring the right developments to our region," the monarch stated. "Badagry is the only division lagging behind in Lagos State. If you remove the ‘B’ from IBILE, the acronym loses its meaning. Badagry must be given what it deserves."

In a response that has sparked widespread debate, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, the Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), noted his personal ties to the division as the Baba Oba of Apa Kingdom. However, he also highlighted his relationship with the current Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who is widely considered the frontrunner for the 2027 seat.

Critics have interpreted Prince Olusi’s remarks as a signal that the GAC’s final decision may be swayed by personal interests rather than regional rotation, potentially denying Badagry people their rightful place. Which has likewise been tagged as injustices.

Allegations of Internal Betrayal

The movement is not only facing external pressure but internal friction as well. Reports have surfaced suggesting that some political leaders within Badagry those originally at the forefront of the agitation may have compromised the division’s interests. These leaders are being likened by disillusioned locals to the "disciple who sold Jesus," allegedly prioritising personal gain over the collective goal.

Currently, there are rumours that some factions within Badagry have already shifted their focus to lobbying for the Deputy Governor slot. However, even this secondary ambition is reportedly being undermined by certain party elders within the division.

-"Power is Taken, Not Given"

The sentiment among Badagry residents remains one of frustration. Many view the current political climate as an injustice, where the personal interests of a few individuals decide the fate of an entire division, intentionally depriving them of their political rights.

Addressing the summit, Thomas Ogun, a prominent elder of Badagry, reminded the audience of a harsh political reality: “Power is not served or given; it is taken.”

Why Badagry Cannot Afford to Ostracise Hon. Bonu Solomon from the LAHA - Daniel Dovoeke

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Bonu Solomon and Daniel Dovoeke 

Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu has established himself as one of the most high-performing legislators at the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA). He wields significant influence within the Assembly and across the executive arm, having previously served as a Special Adviser (SA) to the Governor.

As a legislator, the primary responsibility is law-making; however, an experienced representative also masters the power of lobbying. This is where Hon. Bonu truly excels. His strategic advocacy has delivered tangible results across Badagry, addressing challenges that once seemed insurmountable.

Transformational Infrastructure and Rural Electrification

One of his most significant achievements was breaking the deadlock on the Badagry West re-electrification project. This initiative serves as a turning point for the transformation of the Badagry West LCDA, which had endured total darkness for several years.

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Performance Beyond Boundaries

Why Hon. Bonu? His impact mirrors that of a Federal House of Representatives member, as his efforts are not strictly confined to Badagry Constituency 1. 

Utility Support: He recently facilitated the provision of five transformers across both Constituency 1 and 2 the latter being outside his primary jurisdiction.

Education and the "Bonu Sanwo Tinubu" Initiative: Since approximately 2020, he has consistently supported tertiary students with cash grants. 

Inclusive Scholarships: The significance of this scheme lies in its transparency. It is non-discriminatory and non-political; unlike "palliatives" often distributed quietly within party circles, this scholarship is publicly announced and open to all Badagry Federation students.

Furthermore, despite residing in Constituency 2, Hon. Bonu has facilitated critical drainage construction and sand-filling projects within Athinporomeh to mitigate local flooding.

A Champion for Badagry Tourism

For those advocating for a world-class tourist destination, Hon. Bonu is indispensable. As the Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, he is at the forefront of repositioning Badagry as the premier tourism hub in Lagos State.

Through his persistent lobbying, the "Point of No Return" has finally gained state-level attention, with reconstruction currently underway. By bringing the Governor and Deputy Governor to Badagry on multiple occasions, he ensured the executive branch witnessed the region’s potential firsthand a move that has yielded historic results.

Employment and State Representation

Hon. Bonu has also been instrumental in securing state-level employment for many Badagry indigenes within various ministries and institutions, strengthening the community's presence in the civil service.

The Comparison: Executive vs. Legislative Roles

While some may suggest Hon. Gbenu as a candidate, it is essential to distinguish between roles. Hon. Gbenu is a respected philanthropist and a capable Executive Chairman. However, an Executive Chairman has direct access to funds, whereas an Assembly member must rely entirely on the power of the lobby and executive relations. 

If voters expect a legislator to maintain an executive-style philanthropic budget, their expectations may fall short. Hon. Bonu has already mastered the unique constraints of the Assembly and delivered clear, evidence-based results.

An Asset to the Badagry Federation

Displacing Hon. Bonu at this juncture would be a disservice to the progress of the region. Badagry’s tourism and infrastructure sectors would face a significant setback without his seasoned representation. 

It is expected that the many students and residents who have benefited from his initiatives will stand in solidarity with him. Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu remains a vital asset to the Badagry Federation.

SEAL Initiative Empowers 100 LASUED Students via "Style at No Cost 2.0"

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

OTO-IJANIKIN, LAGOS – In a remarkable display of student-led community support, the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) campus trade fair became the backdrop for a life-changing event this Tuesday, April 14, 2026. 

The SEAL Initiative (Student Mobilization for Empowerment and Leadership) successfully launched its "Style at No Cost 2.0" project, providing over 100 students with premium fashion and academic essentials—absolutely free.

Amidst the bustling rows of food and book vendors, the SEAL Initiative booth stood out as a beacon of hope, redefining the concept of a "shopping spree" by removing the price tag entirely.

Founded by Makinde Endurance Anuoluwapo, said the SEAL Initiative operates on a simple but powerful philosophy: clothing is a tool for dignity. "The project aims to bridge the gap between financial constraints and professional presentation."

During the one-day activation, students were able to select from a curated variety of high-quality items, including: Professional Attire: Corporate and casual clothing suited for interviews and lectures. Footwear & Accessories: Trendy bags, sandals, and seasonal cardigans. Educational Tools: Books and academic resources to support their studies.

To participate, the requirement was designed to be inclusive rather than restrictive. Students were only asked to follow the initiative’s social media page and complete a brief research form, ensuring the project remains accessible to those who need it most.

The atmosphere at the Oto-Ijanikin campus was one of overwhelming gratitude. Over 70 students were directly empowered within the first few hours, many noting that the initiative arrived at a crucial time.

“This project is about more than clothing,” the organizers shared. “It is about confidence, dignity, and positioning students to show up boldly in society. When students look good, they feel good, and when they feel good, they perform better.”

Beneficiaries described the experience as a significant boost to their self-esteem, with several students calling for the initiative to become a permanent fixture on the campus calendar.

This 2026 rollout marks the first time the program has reached LASUED, following a highly successful multi-day debut at Lagos State University (LASU) last year. The shift to LASUED represents a strategic expansion to ensure that student empowerment isn't confined to a single institution.

The momentum isn't slowing down. Organizers have confirmed that following this successful LASUED activation, the team will return to LASU in May 2026 for a massive two-day expanded edition. 

By redistributing quality items, the Empowering Students: Style at No Cost initiative also promotes a culture of sustainability and waste reduction. It demonstrates that meaningful social change can be achieved through the effective redistribution of existing resources.

Why Badagry Federation Must Rethink the "One-Term" Rule

 By: Manoah Kikekon

As the 2027 electoral cycle begins to take shape, a quiet but intense debate is rippling through the Badagry Federation. At the heart of the conversation is a long-standing political tradition that many indigenes now believe is the primary obstacle to the region’s development: the "One-Man, One-Term" arrangement.

The concern group of Badagry stated in a press statement released by concern indigene of Badagry in a press statement released on Monday said, For decades, an informal rotational system has dictated representation for the Badagry Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives. While designed to ensure fairness and inclusivity among the various wards and groups within the federation, concerned stakeholders argue that this "revolving door" policy is systematically weakening Badagry’s influence at the National Assembly.

Legislative governance is not an entry-level job that can be mastered in four years. In the complex ecosystem of Nigeria’s National Assembly, "ranking members" those who return for second, third, or fourth terms hold the most power. They chair influential committees, understand the intricacies of the budgetary process, and possess the social capital required to lobby for massive infrastructure projects.

By strictly adhering to a one-term limit, Badagry essentially sends "political interns" to Abuja. Just as a representative begins to build the relationships necessary to attract federal presence to the coastal city, they are replaced by a newcomer who must start the learning process from scratch. 

"Development is not accidental," a statement from a group of concerned indigenes noted. "It is built through consistency, experience, and sustained engagement. A system that prioritizes rotation over results risks sacrificing progress for sentiment."

The current political atmosphere reflects a fierce push to replace the incumbent, Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, not necessarily based on a lack of capacity, but driven by the traditional expectation that his "time is up." 

Since his election to the 10th National Assembly, Whingan has initiated several notable projects, including the Badagry 1000TTP tech initiative and various infrastructure rehabilitations. However, the "one-term culture" threatens to truncate these efforts before they reach full maturity. The question facing voters is simple: Should leadership be determined by an arbitrary calendar, or by proven performance?

The Badagry Federation stands at a critical juncture. With the Lagos-Badagry Expressway expansion and the potential of the Badagry Deep Sea Port, the constituency needs a representative who isn't just a "seat warmer" but a strategic power broker. 

To compete with other high-performing constituencies in Lagos and across Nigeria, Badagry must shift its political philosophy. The focus must move: From Entitlement to Effectiveness: Prioritizing candidates who can deliver.

From Rotation to Results: Allowing performing incumbents to build seniority.

From Assumption to Accountability: Judging leaders by their scorecard, not their origin.

Badagry PDP Members Set to Defect to APC via Mandate Explorers Group

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The political landscape of Ward I in Badagry is witnessing a significant shift as members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) prepare to cross carpets to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This movement is being facilitated by the Mandate Explorers Group, a grassroots organization gaining rapid momentum in the Badagry.

The announcement was made during the group’s strategic meeting held on Saturday at Pota, Badagry. The gathering, is the first since the group's official launch, highlighted a growing dissatisfaction with the status quo and a newfound hope in the "Mandate" vision.

Speaking at the event, the pioneer of the Mandate Explorers Group, Engineer Elijah Kappo, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the group's expansion. He revealed that 11 new members from various political backgrounds attended the meeting, with a substantial contingent from the PDP ready to make their defection official.

"This group is built on a foundation of sincerity," Engineer Kappo stated. "Unlike groups that are hijacked for personal gain, we are 'sent' to better the lives of the people of Ward I. We are already seeing results securing admissions for our youth and creating job opportunities since last year."

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Kappo emphasized a self-reliant approach to community development, urging members not to wait solely on politicians but to use their collective capacity to foster local growth.

A key highlight of the meeting was the group’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly regarding non-indigenous residents. Mr. Jimoh Athanvoewa, the Secretary of the group, addressed long-standing grievances concerning the distribution of resources and opportunities in the area.

"Over time, non-indigenes have complained of discrimination," Athanvoewa noted. "In Mandate Explorers, that narrative changes. We have pledged that non-indigenous members will be prioritized and considered alongside indigenes to ensure everyone feels the true dividends of democracy."

Mr. Kehide, a dedicated member who praised the group's progress. He described the incoming PDP defectors as moving "from suffering to a better life," urging other residents who remain on the sidelines to join the movement as soon as possible.