Agemowo Kingdom Set to Mark 3rd Coronation Anniversary of HRM Aholu Solomon Jonah

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

HRM Aholu Solomon Jonah

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Agemowo Kingdom is buzzing with anticipation as the Ajaka Royal Council officially announces the three-year coronation anniversary of HRM Aholu (Oba) Solomon Jonah Adewale Egbenayon, the Jakavi 1st Owa Ajaka of Agemowo.

In a statement released on Saturday by the royal family, the general public is cordially invited to join in a three-day series of cultural and spiritual activities. The event celebrates three years of the monarch's reign, a period marked by tradition, community growth, and cultural preservation in the historic Badagry region.

The anniversary festivities will kick off on Friday, 29th May 2026, with a day dedicated to the deep-rooted traditions of the Agemowo people. Starting at 9:00 AM, the Palace will host traditional prayers, followed by a solemn visitation to the ancient shrines within the kingdom.

Spectators can look forward to a vibrant display of local heritage, including: Ajogen Cultural Display, Zangbeto (The Guardians of the Night) Performance, Akohun Cultural Display and various other traditional showcases.

The celebrations will reach their peak on Saturday, 30th May 2026, with the Grand Finale ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place at the Ajaka Royal Palace in Agemowo, Badagry, starting at 12:00 PM. 

This gathering is expected to draw dignitaries, fellow traditional rulers, and sons and daughters of the soil from across Lagos State to pay homage to the Jakavi 1st and celebrate the progress of the kingdom under his leadership.

To conclude the milestone anniversary, a special Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday, 31st May 2026. The royal family and the community will gather at the Celestial Church of Christ, Aanu Oluwa Cathedral, located at Araromi Ale, Phase 2, Elijah Bus Stop, Badagry.

The service, which begins at 10:00 AM, will serve as a moment of reflection and prayer for the continued peace and prosperity of Agemowo Kingdom and its people.

Lagos 2027: Badagry Youths Stage Rally for Mauyon Ajose, Demands he becomes Lagos Governor

 By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Thousands of young people in Badagry Division, transport workers, and grassroots stakeholders from all 10 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) gathered for a massive rally to endorse the governorship aspiration of Mr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, popularly known as SMA.

The mobilization, which signals a deepening of the Badagry Division’s quest for the 2027 Lagos State governorship, was strategically tied to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing a vision for inclusive growth and regional equity.

The rally, convened by Comrade Joshua Hunga, demonstrated a rare unity between the youth demographic and the state's vital transport sector. Representatives from the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) were present in full force, pledging their total commitment to the SMA movement.

Addressing the vibrant crowd, Comrade Hunga declared that the youths and transport workers are the "backbone of Lagos politics" and would serve as the decisive factor in the upcoming party primaries.

"Our support for SMA is not accidental; it is rooted in his deep understanding of our struggles and his alignment with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision," Hunga stated. "Lagos needs a leader who combines corporate competence with genuine empathy, and SMA is that leader."

The event took a high-profile turn with the presence of veteran actress Medeyonmi Akron, who officially endorsed SMA’s candidacy. She described the aspirant as a compassionate, people-focused leader capable of delivering a clear roadmap for development that leaves no division behind.

Adding to the momentum, market leaders in Badagry, led by the Iyaloja and her executive council, threw their weight behind the "SMA Gold" campaign. The traders cited his consistent track record of philanthropy, specifically mentioning his provision of a dedicated market office as evidence of his commitment to the local economy.

The market leaders used the platform to send a direct message to the Presidency, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give Badagry due consideration in the 2027 race to ensure the "IBILE" (Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe) formula remains balanced.

Throughout the rally, the recurring theme was the preservation of President Tinubu’s legacy in Lagos. Speakers emphasized that SMA, as a seasoned business figure and philanthropist, is best positioned to sustain the developmental strides of the current administration while addressing the specific infrastructure and economic needs of the Badagry axis.

Lagos State Announces 10-Day Grand Funeral Rites for Late Akran of Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Lagos State Government has officially unveiled the transition programme for His Imperial Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I (OFR), the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom. 

This was disclosed in a press briefing held on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in Badagry, the state government declared a 10-day series of events to honour the iconic monarch, starting April 23, 2026.

The announcement was made by Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the Lagos State Government (SSG) and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee. She emphasized that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is committed to providing a burial "befitting the stature and legacy" of the revered monarch.

The funeral rites are designed to blend traditional Ogu customs with modern state ceremonies. As the date is strategically chosen in remembrance of the day the Akran was crowned. The approved itinerary includes:

Day 1 (April 23): The "Ajogan" Royal Parade and traditional gun salutes across the eight quarters of Badagry, followed by a posthumous coronation documentary.

Day 2 & 3 (April 24-25): A novelty football match at Badagry Grammar School and a massive community sanitation and medical outreach.

Day 4 (April 26-28): Three days dedicated to traditional homage paid by market associations, business tycoons, and artisans.

Day 5 & 6 (April 29-30): Inspection of the proposed Badagry Central Palace site and a symbolic "Fitila Night" (Komiogban) procession by the youth.

Day 7 (May 1): Special Jumat service followed by the Akran Legacy Festival at the Badagry Marina.

Day 8 (May 2): The Main Event featuring an interdenominational service, foundation laying for the Aholu Menu-Toyi Park, and a grand reception featuring legendary artist Sagbohan Danialou.

Day 9 (May 3): Thanksgiving service and reception with performances by Young Stars and Ricos Campos.

Day 10 (May 6): The final traditional rites, including the esoteric Zangbeto procession and Oro rites across the kingdom.

Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu, representing Badagry Constituency I in the Lagos House of Assembly, highlighted the Akran Legacy Festival as a pivotal part of the celebration. 

"Baba did so much to liberate the youths. This festival is aimed at opening up the Badagry economy; it will be a three-day trade and entertainment hub. We call on all Badagrians, home and abroad, to join us," Hon. Bonu stated.

Mr. Adeyinka Amosu, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee, noted that the state-led involvement puts an end to months of uncertainty. He remarked that this historic celebration signals a new era of attention from the state government toward the Badagry division.

The late Akran, a distinguished journalist and traditional leader, was known for his peaceful reign and advocacy for the development of Badagry. The "Golden Jubilee" monarch’s passing marks the end of an era for one of Nigeria's most historic coastal kingdoms.

Facebook Baby Market: NSCDC Uncovers N1 Million "Bounty" for Newborns in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS – New, disturbing details have emerged following a successful raid on a suspected "baby factory" in the Okuju-Ilado area of Olorunda LCDA, Badagry. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has revealed that the criminal syndicate behind the operation used social media to lure vulnerable pregnant women with massive cash offers.

According to Lagos State Commandant Adedotun Keshinro, the suspects allegedly leveraged Facebook to reach out to expectant mothers, promising them between N500,000 and N1 million in exchange for their babies after delivery.

The investigation into the residential facility in Badagry has exposed how modern technology is being weaponised for human trafficking. Commandant Keshinro alleged that the suspects specifically targeted women facing financial hardship, using the lure of life-changing sums of money to convince them to part with their newborns.

"The suspects used a Facebook account to attract pregnant women, promising payments ranging from N500,000 to N1 million for their babies," the Commandant stated during a briefing on the operation.

Related News:

 Badagry: NSCDC Exposed Suspected ‘Baby Factory,’ Rescues 17 Pregnant Women and 10 Children

The financial inducement served as the primary bait, drawing women from various locations to the secluded facility in Olorunda LCDA, where they were kept until delivery.

Following a tip-off and intelligence gathering, NSCDC operatives stormed the building in Okuju-Ilado, community of Badagry. The operation resulted in the rescue of multiple pregnant women and several other individuals who were reportedly being held or processed as part of the illegal trade.

Commandant Keshinro confirmed that the facility functioned as a commercial hub for child trafficking, masquerading as a residential home to evade the eyes of local authorities. The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention and psychological support as the Corps continues its crackdown on the syndicate.

The NSCDC has intensified its investigation to track down the network of buyers and any additional accomplices linked to the Facebook recruitment scheme. This case highlights a growing trend in Lagos where traffickers move their operations to the outskirts of the state to avoid detection.

OGUN LAND CRISIS DEEPENS: Okanran Communities Allege Attacks, Seek Urgent Government Intervention

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Demolished house 

ADO-ODO/OTA, OGUN STATE – Residents of Okanran and 47 other Ogu-speaking communities in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area have issued a frantic "Save Our Souls" (SOS) appeal to Governor Dapo Abiodun and the Federal Government. The embattled inhabitants are alleging a sustained campaign of terror and illegal land dispossession led by suspected land grabbers.

The affected communities, whose ancestral ties to the land span over five generations, claim they are being forcefully evicted and intimidated by a group allegedly led by Mr. Jaiyeola Jimoh Togun of the Akapo family.

The tension reportedly stems from a 1,200-hectare land claim based on a controversial gazette purportedly issued during the administration of former Governor Gbenga Daniel. However, community leaders maintain that the claim is fraudulent and built on a misinterpretation of a Supreme Court ruling, which they say addressed a chieftaincy dispute within a single family, not land ownership.

Chief Akinyanmi Elijah, the Baale-elect of the community, painted a grim picture of life under siege. He alleged that armed thugs frequently invade their villages, assaulting residents and destroying property to create an atmosphere of fear. 

"This violence has crippled our primary livelihoods farming and trading," Chief Elijah stated. "Our people are living in constant terror, and the presence of these armed men is destroying the peace we have known for decades."

The land crisis has exacerbated years of systemic neglect in the Okanran axis. Residents decried the total absence of basic amenities, including motorable roads, electricity, and healthcare facilities. 

A particularly heart-wrenching account was shared by Chief Ojo Agen, who recalled a 2011 incident involving the killing of a young man near a primary school. The tragedy led to the withdrawal of pupils and the eventual collapse of the only public school in the area, forcing local children to travel to neighbouring communities for basic education.

The dispute is currently before the Ogun State High Court, following a series of failed resolutions. While a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in 2011 to delineate boundaries, residents allege the Akapo family has reneged on the agreement. 

Efforts to seek judicial relief saw the parties appear before a Customary Court in November 2025, but the Okanran communities escalated the case for proper adjudication. Despite a court order of perpetual injunction restraining further encroachment, residents allege that the attacks have continued unabated. 

Furthermore, community leaders accused some officials within the Bureau of Lands and Survey of complicity, alleging they are facilitating the illegal appropriation of community land through falsified documentation.

The residents of the 48 affected communities including Okanran Balogun Tafin, Okanran Saviekoh, Okanran Ziviekoh, and Okanran Whezumeh, among others are calling for: An immediate investigation into the activities of Mr. Jaiyeola Jimoh Togun and his associates. The revocation of any disputed gazettes used to justify land seizures. A stakeholder meeting convened by the State Government to restore permanent peace.

Lagos 2027: Badagry Monarch Denies "Incoming Governor" Remark, Reaffirms Support for Samuel Ajose

 By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The political landscape in Lagos State has been hit by a wave of controversy as Aholu Agano Toniyon I, the Aholu of Agamathen Kingdom, officially disowned remarks attributing the title of "incoming governor" to Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat. 

The monarch’s rebuttal follows a highly publicised clarification by Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC). Olusi had previously claimed that the "incoming governor" label which sparked a firestorm of succession debate did not originate from him, but was allegedly first uttered by a traditional ruler from Badagry during the recent IBILE Eko Summit at the MUSON Centre.

Speaking in a telephone interview with Badagry Today, Aholu Toniyon I dismissed the allegations, stating firmly that he never referred to Dr. Hamzat as the next governor. Instead, the monarch insisted that his address, delivered in both Egun and English, was purely an advocacy for the Badagry Division's turn to lead the state.

"I did not at any time refer to the Deputy Governor as ‘incoming governor,’" the monarch declared. "My message was clear and consistent. I spoke about the need for Badagry to take its rightful place in Lagos politics and specifically called for support for Samuel Mawuyon Ajose."

The monarch further challenged critics to review video recordings of the event, which are currently in the public domain, to verify that his endorsement was reserved exclusively for Ajose.

The controversy began after the General Assembly of Indigenous Associations, where the term "incoming governor" was linked to Hamzat, leading many to believe a formal endorsement had taken place. 

In a statement to Daily Independent, Prince Tajudeen Olusi clarified that while the term was used at the event, it should be viewed as an "expression of aspiration" rather than a definitive political decree. 

"To me, incoming means somebody who is on the way. That means that the person is still struggling to achieve something," Olusi explained, adding that the press and social media had "read all kinds of meanings" into a phrase he insists was first voiced by a Badagry traditional ruler.

With both the GAC Chairman and the Badagry Monarch now denying they were the originators of the "incoming governor" tag for Hamzat, the source of the remark remains a mystery. However, the fallout has underscored two major themes in the unfolding Lagos 2027 race:

1.  The Badagry Agitation:Traditional rulers and stakeholders in the Badagry Division are increasingly united behind indigenous candidates like Samuel Ajose, demanding an end to regional developmental gaps.

2.  The Succession Debate: The sensitivity surrounding Deputy Governor Hamzat’s potential candidacy shows just how closely political observers are watching the GAC for any signs of an official "anointing."

Badagry: NSCDC Exposed Suspected ‘Baby Factory,’ Rescues 17 Pregnant Women and 10 Children

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a high-stakes midnight operation, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has uncovered a suspected "baby factory" operating in the Okuju-Ilado community of Badagry. The raid resulted in the rescue of 27 individuals, including 17 pregnant women and 10 children, exposing a sophisticated human trafficking ring.

The Lagos State Commandant of the NSCDC, Adedotun Keshinro, revealed that the breakthrough followed three weeks of intensive intelligence gathering and surveillance on a large residential building that housed multiple hidden apartments.

Commandant Keshinro explained that the operators of the facility targeted vulnerable women through social media. Using a fraudulent Facebook account, the suspects reportedly lured pregnant women with promises of financial stability and prenatal care. Once the victims were convinced, the conversations were moved to private messaging apps to finalise travel arrangements.

“Once the victims arrive, their freedom is restricted,” Keshinro told journalists. “They are confined within the premises, and their movements are closely monitored.”

The rescued women, aged between 18 and 35, included one victim who had tragically suffered a miscarriage during her confinement. 

During the raid, two key suspects were apprehended. One of the suspects, Joy Okeke, admitted that the operation had previously been based in Ikorodu before relocating to the Badagry axis in January 2026. However, she declined to provide further details, citing her right to legal representation.

The second suspect, **Alfred Junior**, maintained that the women were there of their own volition. “The pregnant women come on their own. Sometimes we give them transport money and take care of them after agreements are signed,” he claimed.

Some victims shared harrowing stories of desperation. One woman admitted she sought out the facility after being abandoned by the man responsible for her pregnancy. “I came here on my own because he refused to take responsibility, and I had nowhere else to go,” she said.

Residents of Okuju-Ilado expressed shock at the discovery, noting that while the building seemed suspicious, they never imagined it housed a baby factory. Adebayo Odunfa, Chairman of the Okuju-Ilado Community Development Association, noted that the occupants were rarely seen in public.

“A man usually handled all the food purchases and kept the gate locked at all times. We had no idea what was happening behind those walls until the NSCDC arrived,” Odunfa said.

The NSCDC has confirmed that both the victims and the suspects will be handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and prosecution.