Why Samuel Ajose is the Name to Watch in Lagos Come 2027

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Samuel Mawuyon Ajose 

As the 2027 Lagos State governorship race shifts from hushed whispers to high-stakes strategy, the political landscape is being redefined. While veteran heavyweights and household names like Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Tokunbo Abiru dominate the early headlines, a new force is quietly consolidating power from the coastal flank. 

Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, a seasoned technocrat and indigene of Badagry, is emerging as the focal point of a historic movement: the "Badagry Awakening."

The Badagry Argument: A Quest for Equity

Funsho Arogundade, Ace journalist and famous columnist with The Sun Newspapers said in an article, "for decades, Lagos has been governed through its five traditional divisions: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe (IBILE)."

However, a glaring historical imbalance remains—Badagry is the only division yet to produce a governor since the state’s creation in 1967. As 2027 approaches, political observers and grassroots leaders argue that this "unfinished chapter" must finally be closed. Dr. Ajosebhai has become the face of this corrective narrative, positioning his candidacy not just as an ethnic or regional claim, but as a strategic necessity for state-wide inclusion.

Boardroom Gravitas Meets Grassroots Appeal

"Unlike typical political aspirants who rely on loud rallies and spectacle, Dr. Ajose’s rise is built on a foundation of professional excellence and quiet diplomacy. As the CEO of the Levitikal Group, he has spent over 15 years navigating the complexities of construction, real estate, and strategic enterprise," Arogundade said.

"His experience presiding over high-level boards has earned him a reputation as a "systems engineer" in governance," he added.

Sources indicate that Ajose has been conducting "listening tours" across all 57 LGAs and LCDAs, bridging the gap between the Lagos elite and the everyday citizen.

Philanthropy and Party Loyalty

Dr. Ajose’s influence is further bolstered by his significant contributions to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Recently, his Samuel Ajose Foundation made headlines for donating logistics materials to party secretariats across the state to support voter registration. 

His ability to mobilize resources including a reported ₦10 million support package to each chairmanship candidate in the Badagry division during local polls—demonstrates a deep-seated commitment to the party’s grassroots structure that few can ignore.

Why the Timing Favors a Technocrat

The 2027 election will take place at a critical inflection point for Lagos. With challenges ranging from border trade complexities and climate vulnerability to urban congestion, the electorate is increasingly leaning toward leadership that understands policy over politics. 

Dr. Ajose’s background in Geography (B.Sc. from the University of Ilorin) and his tenure in infrastructure development place him in a unique class of aspirants who view the governor’s office as a management role rather than a political trophy.

The Quiet Movement for a Loud Outcome

In the complex theater of Lagos politics, momentum is often gained in the shadows before it hits the spotlight. By focusing on inclusion and competence, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose is reframing the 2027 conversation. 

If the APC’s unwritten doctrine of rotational balance holds true, the Badagry corridor may finally have its day. As the "Power Chessboard" takes shape, the move toward Ajose reflects a desire for a Lagos that expands its geography without diminishing its legendary excellence.

Badagry LG Chairman Babatunde Hunpe Honored with Doctorate

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Babatunde Hunpe 

BADAGRY, Lagos — Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, fMHR, has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Strategic Leadership and Public Resources Management by the Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics (CIPRMP), Ghana. 

This landmark recognition, which includes his induction into the Institute's 2026 Hall of Fame, underscores his three-decade-long journey of excellence in Nigerian public service and legislative governance.

The award ceremony, held at the Chairman’s office in Badagry, was led by Dr. Babatunde Newton, the Institute’s 2nd Vice-President (Academic), alongside Engr. Mike Shey Phillips and Mrs. Victoria Olanrewaju. During the presentation, the Institute lauded Hon. Hunpe’s trajectory as a model of integrity and disciplined execution, citing his transition from local administration to high-level state and federal roles.

The CIPRMP, an international body established in 1995, noted that Hon. Hunpe’s leadership stands as a "beacon of hope" for West African public administration. His career highlights include: Special Adviser on Rural Development: Under Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (2011–2015). Special Adviser on Environment: Under Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (2015–2019). Federal Legislator: Representing Badagry Federal Constituency in the 9th National Assembly (2019–2023).

The Institute’s governing council emphasized that this Honorary Doctorate is not merely a title but a recognition of transformative contributions. Since assuming office as the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government in July 2025, Hunpe has aggressively pursued a vision of tourism revitalization, infrastructure development, and economic inclusion.

"Hon. Hunpe is an exceptional leader whose over three decades of service reflect a rare combination of strategic vision and unwavering integrity," remarked Dr. Babatunde Newton.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Hunpe expressed profound humility, noting that international recognition from a Ghanaian-based institute was both "amazing and inspiring." He dedicated the award to the people of Badagry, pledging to use the platform to further elevate the community’s socio-economic status.

"I am deeply honored," Hunpe said. "This recognition inspires me to continue delivering purposeful, transformative leadership. I pledge to remain committed to excellence and integrity, ensuring that our community continues to grow, prosper, and thrive under a vision-driven administration."

The Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics, Ghana, plays a pivotal role in shaping corporate governance and public policy across member nations like Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, and Kenya. By inducting leaders like Hon. Hunpe into its Hall of Fame, the Institute aims to foster a culture of accountable statesmanship.and professional excellence within the African continent.

The 2026 induction cycle has focused on leaders who have demonstrated "field-proven" success in managing public resources amidst the evolving economic challenges of the West African sub-region.

Epstein-Barak Connection: How Israeli Spy Tech Was Marketed During Nigeria’s Boko Haram Crisis

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Jeffrey Epstein and Boko Haram 

New revelations have surfaced detailing a calculated effort by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak to capitalize on Nigeria’s national security struggles. Investigations into released U.S. Department of Justice emails suggest the pair viewed the Boko Haram insurgency not as a humanitarian tragedy, but as a "perfect" opening to sell high-end surveillance technology and gain a foothold in Nigeria’s oil and logistics sectors.

A "Strategic Opportunity" Amidst Conflict

The investigation, spearheaded by Drop Site News and reported by Al Jazeera, highlights a chilling 2014 exchange. As Nigeria grappled with the kidnapping of the Chibok schoolgirls and escalating terror attacks, Epstein emailed Barak regarding the regional unrest, asking, “Isn’t this perfect for you?” Barak’s response was reportedly pragmatic: “You’re right in a way. But not simple to transform it into a cash flow.” Despite the complexity, the duo allegedly moved forward, leveraging Barak’s military and political pedigree to market "field-proven" security solutions systems often refined during operations in Palestinian territories.

From Gaza to Nigeria: Biometrics as Counterterrorism

The financial trail reveals that in 2015, Barak invested $15 million in FST Biometrics, a firm founded by former Israeli military intelligence chief Aharon Ze’evi Farkash. The company’s flagship "Basel" system was originally designed to monitor movement at the Erez crossing in Gaza.

Under the guise of counterterrorism, this technology was reportedly funneled into Nigeria. Key highlights of the expansion include: Babcock University: The sale of biometric surveillance equipment marketed to "filter away all unwanted persons." National Infrastructure: By 2020, the World Bank engaged the Israel National Cyber Directorate and a Barak-linked startup to help shape Nigeria’s national cyber framework.

Security as a Gateway to Oil and Ports

The influence of Epstein and Barak extended far beyond digital walls. Documents suggest that security cooperation served as a "Trojan horse" for entering Nigeria’s lucrative maritime and energy sectors.

Epstein allegedly acted as a high-level broker for DP World, the Dubai-based logistics giant. He reportedly facilitated talks between the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and DP World chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem. The goal? To acquire strategic port assets in Lagos and Badagry.

Note: Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem resigned as chairman of DP World on February 13, 2026, following renewed scrutiny over his historical ties to Epstein.

High-Level Political Access in Abuja

The level of access secured by the duo within the Nigerian government was significant. In 2013, Barak attended a cybersecurity conference in Abuja designed specifically to facilitate private meetings with then-President Goodluck Jonathan.

Following these high-level dinners, Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems moved forward with a controversial internet surveillance project in Nigeria. This project proceeded despite vocal opposition from some Nigerian lawmakers concerned about privacy and foreign overreach.

The Global Fallout

These findings are part of a massive document leak detailing Epstein’s web of influence among global financiers and intelligence figures. While Ehud Barak has since expressed "regret" over his association with Epstein claiming he was unaware of the extent of Epstein’s crimes until 2019 the records show a partnership that continued long after Epstein’s 2008 conviction.

For Nigeria, the revelations raise uncomfortable questions about how national crises were utilized by foreign actors to embed surveillance state technologies into the country's core infrastructure.

BREAKING: Federal High Court Awards ₦30 Million to Sowore Over Illegal ‘Wanted’ Declaration

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Omoyele Sowore and Moshood Jimoh 

In a landmark victory for civil liberties, the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has ordered the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to pay ₦30 million in damages to human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore.

Delivering the judgment on Friday, February 20, 2026, Justice Musa Kaakaki ruled that the October 2025 declaration by the Lagos State Police Command labeling Sowore as "wanted" was illegal, unconstitutional, and a gross violation of his fundamental rights.

The court did not mince words in its rebuke of CP Moshood Jimoh of the Lagos State Police Command. Justice Kaakaki held that the police acted outside the bounds of the law by declaring a citizen wanted without a valid court warrant or prior invitation.

Sowore, who was present for the ruling, hailed the decision as a "resounding blow" to tyranny. Taking to social media, he stated:

“The judgment was clear, firm, and excruciatingly loud in its message: abuse of power has consequences. While the illegal IGP Kayode Egbetokun was busy shopping for ex parte orders, Justice Musa Kaakaki delivered a blow to their tyranny.”

The legal battle stems from events in October 2025, when CP Moshood Jimoh declared Sowore wanted following the activist's involvement in protests against building demolitions in the Oworonshoki community.

The police had accused Sowore of inciting public disturbance and planning to block the Third Mainland Bridge. However, the court found that: No formal police invitation was extended to Sowore before the declaration. No warrant of arrest had been issued by a competent court. The declaration was a "politically motivated" attempt to stifle dissent.

The ₦30 million award serves as both compensation for the "stigma and harassment" suffered by Sowore and a punitive measure against the NPF. Sowore’s lead counsel, Barrister Tope Temokun, was praised for his "diligent and precise" handling of the case, which saw the police fail to provide a valid legal defense for their actions.

This ruling follows a series of confrontations between Sowore and the current police leadership. Just last month, another court adjourned a separate ₦1.2 billion suit filed by the activist against the IGP over illegal detention in Abuja.

This judgment sets a significant precedent for how the Nigerian Police utilize "wanted" declarations against government critics and activists.

Mobolaji Ogunlende Hosts CBT for Aspiring JAMB Candidate

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Mobolaji Ogunlende 

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, pioneer Real Act of Kindness RAK Development Foundation has successfully conducted a comprehensive Computer-Based Test (CBT) for JAMB aspirants.

The exercise, held on February 19, 2026, in Badagry, was organized through his RAK Development Foundation. This initiative specifically targets brilliant but indigent students, providing them with a platform to prove their academic readiness while removing the financial barriers associated with tertiary education entrance exams.

According to Desmond Wande, the coordinator of the free JAMB form initiative, the selection process was designed to be both rigorous and transparent. "The goal is to identify truly deserving candidates who will receive full registration sponsorship and free JAMB forms," Wande noted. 

By utilizing a CBT format, the foundation ensures that students are not only tested on their knowledge but are also becoming familiar with the digital examination environment they will face during the official Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

This educational support program is not a one-off event; it represents a sustained commitment that has spanned over seven years. Mobolaji Ogunlende, has consistently used his foundation to bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity for the youth of Lagos. 

The annual program has become a cornerstone of community development in the Badagry division, fostering a culture of academic excellence and digital literacy among secondary school leavers.

The RAK Development Foundation’s impact extends well beyond the initial registration phase. Exceptional students who excel in their exams and secure admission into their preferred universities are often eligible for: Financial aid to cover university fees. Guidance through the admission process. Provision of necessary materials for higher learning.

By integrating these support structures, Hon. Ogunlende continues to demonstrate that true youth empowerment lies in providing the tools for long-term success. As the 2026 UTME registration window nears its close, this timely intervention ensures that no talented student in Badagry is left behind due to economic constraints.

**Would you like me to create a social media post or a press release template based on this article for the RAK Foundation’s channels?**

LASU Governing Council Pledges Infrastructure Overhaul at LASUSBAS Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a strategic move to cement Lagos State University’s position as a leader in foundational education, the University Governing Council paid a high-profile working visit to the Lagos State University School of Basic and Advanced Studies (LASUSBAS), Badagry, on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The visit served as both an inspection of current progress and a powerful assurance of future infrastructural development.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mr. Babatunde Ogala (SAN), led the distinguished delegation to the Topo/Dale Scon Road campus. Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello (mni, NPOM), the council sought to evaluate the impact of recent investments and identify the immediate needs of the burgeoning satellite campus.

During the reception, the Director of LASUSBAS, Prof. Yunus Adeleke Dauda, delivered an impressive account of the school's evolution. Under the current administration, the campus has undergone a significant facelift. Key achievements highlighted included the construction of two new cafeterias, a dedicated Computer Based Test (CBT) Centre, and the procurement of a 150 KVA generator to stabilize power.

The Director also noted that the safety and well-being of students have been prioritized through the installation of 40 CCTV cameras, solar-powered lighting across the campus and hostels, and the donation of a new ambulance and security patrol bus. These upgrades, he noted, have directly correlated with the stellar performance of students in the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) exams.

A critical point of the discussion centered on the future of examinations. With JUPEB transitioning to a fully Computer-Based Test (CBT) format by 2026, Prof. Dauda emphasized the urgent need to expand the current CBT facilities to accommodate 250 computer spaces —a requirement set by JAMB. This digital readiness is seen as a non-negotiable step in maintaining the school’s competitive edge.

Despite the successes, the school management presented a "roadmap for excellence" to the Council. The list of requested interventions includes:  Construction of on-campus student hostels at Topo. Acquisition of a 42-seater Coaster bus. New administrative offices and a modern Health Centre. A befitting main entrance gate to reflect the institution's prestige.

Security remains a top priority, particularly regarding the campus's proximity to the water. Prof. Dauda requested the construction of a perimeter fence by the lagoon side. In response, Mr. Babatunde Ogala (SAN) demonstrated a pragmatic approach, noting that a standard wall might not be suitable for the terrain. He tasked the management to provide a specialized cost analysis and design that accounts for the unique geography of the Badagry coastline.

Addressing the accommodation deficit, the Pro-Chancellor proposed a model that has already seen success at the LASU main campus in Ojo. He encouraged the LASUSBAS leadership to pursue Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for hostel construction. "Give us a proposal on how to achieve that, and I can assure you I will push for it," Ogala stated, reaffirming the Council's commitment to creating a residential campus environment.

The visit concluded with a comprehensive tour of the facilities. The Council members inspected the refurbished classrooms, science laboratories, the library, and the existing CBT centre. The delegation expressed satisfaction with the "ambience of the campus," noting that the serene environment in Badagry is highly conducive to advanced learning and research.

As LASUSBAS continues to provide the human and material resources necessary for academic triumph, the Governing Council’s visit signals a new era of expansion for the Badagry campus, ensuring it remains a premier destination for JUPEB and basic studies in Nigeria.

Fresh Military Arrests as Tinubu Coup Plotters Detained in Abuja

By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Nigerian military has reportedly intensified its crackdown on an alleged conspiracy to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, making fresh arrests of high-ranking officers. Among the latest to be detained is Major H. Yusuf, a decorated officer of the Nigerian Army’s 57 Regular Course, who recently concluded his Senior Course at the prestigious Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji.

These developments follow a high-stakes investigation that has been quietly unfolding since late 2025. While the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has maintained a tight lid on the specifics, the scope of the alleged plot appears to involve a wide network of military personnel and civilian collaborators.

Defence Minister Reveals He Was a "Marked Target"

The gravity of the situation was underscored by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), who recently went public with chilling details of the conspiracy. Speaking on Channels Television, the Minister revealed that he was personally marked for elimination by the plotters.

"I was also a target," General Musa stated. "The plan was to arrest me, and if I resisted, I was to be shot. These individuals lack the capacity to challenge the Nigerian military, but their intentions were clear."

The Minister's disclosure aligns with the military’s January 2026 confirmation that several of the 16 officers arrested in October 2025 would face formal prosecution for attempting to destabilize the federal government.

Breakdown of Detained Officers: A Growing List

While the military initially dismissed rumors of a coup, describing early arrests as matters of "service indiscipline," the narrative has shifted toward a full-scale national security investigation. Current reports suggest that over 35 military officers and at least one police officer, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, are in custody.

The hierarchy of those detained highlights the alleged depth of the plot: High-Ranking Officers: 1 Brigadier General, 2 Colonels, and 5 Lieutenant Colonels. Mid-Level Command: 11 Majors (including Navy and Air Force equivalents), 5 Captains, and 1 Lieutenant. Non-Commissioned Officers: 10 personnel, ranging from Warrant Officers to Lance Corporals.

Geographically, the suspects represent a broad spectrum of the country, with a significant number hailing from Northern states, including Nasarawa, Niger, Katsina, and Kano, alongside officers from Bayelsa and Osun.

Human Rights Concerns and Detention Conditions

As the investigation enters its second year without a formal trial, families of the detained officers have raised alarms regarding "inhumane treatment." Reports indicate that at least five officers have fallen ill while being held in underground military cells in Abuja.

Relatively little information has been shared with the families, who claim they have been denied access to legal representation and medical updates. Sources suggest that some detainees were moved from standard DIA facilities to more restrictive, poorly ventilated "dark cells" following the initial arrests in late 2025.

Regional Context: A Wave of Unrest

The alleged plot against the Tinubu administration comes at a sensitive time for the West African sub-region. Following recent military takeovers and failed coup attempts in countries like the Benin Republic, Nigerian authorities are on high alert to prevent any democratic reversal.

The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, assured the public that those found culpable would be formally arraigned before a military judicial panel in accordance with the Armed Forces Act.

For now, the specifics of the evidence and the "prominent Nigerians" allegedly involved remain classified, leaving the nation on edge as the military continues its internal purge.