Badagry Magistrate Court Registrar Semiu (Alfa) Detains Ghanaian Nationals, Allegedly in Defence of Scam Group

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Tensions boiled over at the Badagry Magistrate Court on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, as a desperate attempt by a Ghanaian family to rescue their son from an alleged fraud syndicate resulted in the detention of two men for violating court protocols.

The court registrar, identified as Mr. Semiu popularly known as Alfa, ordered the immediate detention of two Ghanaian nationals, Eric Appiah and Richmond Owusu, following a disruptive argument within the court premises. The duo had traveled from Ghana to confront members of a specialized fraud group who they believe have been holding their relative, Kofi Dufie, against his will.

The incident began when Appiah (Kofi’s stepfather) and Owusu (his uncle) arrived at the court upon hearing that Kofi would be appearing alongside the very individuals accused of trafficking and defrauding him. In a heated attempt to "rescue" Kofi from the group, a loud altercation broke out, disturbing the ongoing court sessions.

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Mr. Alfa, acting on the breach of court decorum, ordered that the two men be locked up. Findings showed that the detention was initially intended to prevent and stop the family from taking the young man from the traffickers. Indicating that Alfa may be working closely with the traffickers.

Following the intervention of several observers, the two men were eventually released but were issued a stern warning: any further attempt to take Kofi would result in kidnapping charges against the family.

The backstory of the case reveals a sophisticated human trafficking and fraud recruitment ring operating out of Atinprome Badagry, Lagos State. Kofi Dufie was reportedly lured from Ghana after being promised a lucrative job in Poland. His family, believing the opportunity was legitimate, paid a significant sum in Ghana Cedis for visa processing and documentation.

Kofi was told there were no direct flights from Ghana to Poland and was instructed to fly to Nigeria first. Upon arriving in Lagos, he was transported to a secluded building in Badagry where he was allegedly locked up for days. Instead of a plane ticket to Europe, he was given "training" on how to defraud his own friends and family back home, pretending he had successfully reached Poland to lure more victims.

The scam came to light after Kofi’s uncle was targeted by the group using Kofi as a front. The family eventually realized that Kofi was not in Europe but was being held by the fraud gang in Nigeria. Despite tracing him to Badagry, their efforts to bring him home have been legally distributed.

Appiah said, "Court officials told us that Kofi is now above 18 years of age, and under current legal standing, he cannot be "forced" to return home with his us despite that he is not part of a legal proceeding involving the group." This technicality has left the family in a state of despair, fearing their son has been "brainwashed" or is under extreme duress.

The fraud group involved in the case was reportedly busted by the Nigerian Police in December 2025. The crackdown followed a public outcry from a relative of another victim who had been abducted and held under similar circumstances. 

The leader of the group, identified as Betty Wata, is currently facing prosecution. During preliminary hearings, Wata reportedly admitted to collecting the sum of N4 million from one victim and confessed to the deception involving the Ghana-to-Poland route. She has since begun making partial refunds as part of the ongoing court proceedings.

While the Ghanaian family insists that Kofi is a victim of trafficking, Alfa's stance remains focused on the disruption of judicial proceedings. And warning that the family could be charged with "kidnapping" if they take their son by force.

For Eric Appiah and Richmond Owusu, the battle to bring Kofi home continues, highlighting the dangerous reach of transnational cybercrime syndicates operating across the West African border.

Lagos Commissioner Ogunlende Named Grand Patron as Badagry Women Celebrate 2026 IWD

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY — The Badagry Women Development Forum (BWDF) honored Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, at the 2026 International Women’s Day with the title of Grand Patron.

The event, themed “Redirecting Women’s Focus: Give to Gain,” was held on Thursday, 2nd April 2026, at Topa Guest House, Badagry, Lagos.

Led by its Founder and Principal Coordinator, Hon. (Mrs.) Sewede Pot-Balogun, the event brought together women and dignitaries from across various sectors to celebrate and recognize the invaluable contributions of women to society. The atmosphere was one of empowerment and cultural pride as the forum sought to chart a new course for female leadership in the division.

In her opening address, Hon. Pot-Balogun delivered a message on the resilience of the female gender, stating, “Anyone with the support of women will find it easier to weather the storms of life.” She paid a glowing tribute to the late Chief Sunny Akinsanya Ajose, the former Grand Patron, acknowledging that his enduring legacy provided the foundation upon which the forum currently stands. 

She reflected on the association's journey, highlighting its evolution into a powerhouse for nurturing "purposeful and intentional women." The Principal Coordinator emphasized that the BWDF remains a true embodiment of the proverb that "women are builders," citing numerous grassroots projects aimed at economic self-reliance for Badagry mothers.

The "Mother of the Day," Prof. Bidemi Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye, Vice-Chancellor of the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), emphasized the critical role women play as the architects of societal values. She noted that the future of Nigeria depends heavily on the intentionality of mothers in raising the next generation. 

“What is given determines what is gained,” the Vice-Chancellor remarked, encouraging attendees to invest more in the moral and educational upbringing of their children. In recognition of her unwavering support for female advancement, Prof. Lafiaji-Okuneye was presented with a special award of excellence by the forum.

A major highlight of the garden party was the official elevation of Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende to the position of Grand Patron. As the pioneer of the Real Acts of Kindness (RAK) Development Foundation, Ogunlende’s promotion from Patron was described by attendees as a natural fit, filling the longstanding vacancy left by the late Chief Sunny Ajose.

Accepting the mantle, Hon. Ogunlende led the gathering in a minute of silence for his predecessor, whom he described as a father figure. He commended the palpable unity among the BWDF members but issued a strategic challenge: the inclusion of younger women. He noted that for the forum to achieve long-term sustainability, the energy of the youth must be integrated into the wisdom of the elders.

The event took on a pan-Lagos dimension with the arrival of the RAK 57 Women, representing all 57 Local Government Areas and LCDAs in the state. Hon. Ogunlende noted on his official social media channels that this group has built an enduring five-year relationship with his foundation, adding significant prestige to the Badagry celebration.

Ogu Heritage: 10,000 Converge as Badagry Celebrates Akohun Drum Festival 2026

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LUDA-AJARA, BADAGRY — Over 10,000 persons has gathered at ancient town of Badagry the rhythmic thumping of traditional percussions as the 2026 Akohun Drum Festival reached a spectacular climax. 

The grand finale held on Monday March 30, 2026, at Luda-Ajara Badagry Lagos. The even was Organized to celebrate the 7th coronation anniversary of Chief Jesuyon Avoseh, the Baale of Luda-Ajara, the three-day cultural extravaganza drew a record-breaking crowd of over 10,000 residents, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts.

The festival, which served as a vibrant showcase of the Ogu people’s identity, featured an extensive lineup of events, including a 20km marathon, a cross-city awareness rally, and high-energy musical performances that transformed the Luda-Ajara community into a theater of African heritage.

The grand finale was defined by the mesmerizing sounds of 15 different Akohun groups, who competed to showcase the dexterity and historical depth of the Ogu drumming tradition. The air was filled with a blend of sacred and secular rhythms, featuring standout performances from the Zenli, Mase, and Gbale groups. 

The Akohun drum, deeply rooted in the history of the Ogu people, is more than a musical instrument; it serves as a repository of oral history and communal values. According to elders, sustaining these performances is critical to preventing the erosion of indigenous knowledge among the younger generation.

Addressing the massive gathering, the Aholu Agano Toniyon I of Ajara-Agamathen Kingdom expressed his profound joy at the turnout. He emphasized that the survival of the Ogu culture depends on the unity of its youth.

"Over the years, we have advocated for the Ogu people to come together for the development of our communities," the Monarch stated. "I am most concerned about unity among the youths. Our elders have always remained in one accord, and the youths must replicate this synergy for the future of Badagry."

The Chairman of the Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, also lauded the initiative, describing it as a "commendable event" that perfectly aligns with the government's vision of cultural tourism. He reaffirmed the Local Government’s full support for the festival, noting that it serves as a powerful tool for identity preservation.

For the convener, Chief Jesuyon Avoseh, the festival is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Reflecting on his seven years on the throne, the Baale noted that the initiative was born out of a desire to reintroduce the Ogu culture to the world.

“Most of our kids today don't know our culture anymore; some were seeing these drums for the first time here,” Chief Avoseh remarked. “In recent times, we haven't done enough to promote our indigenous music industry. This festival is to encourage our local talents and show the world the rich heritage we possess.”

Police Nab Notorious "Keke" Theft Syndicate, Recover 8 Stolen Tricycles

By: Manoah Kikekon 

KANO — In a major breakthrough against urban crime, the Kano State Police Command has successfully Arrested a specialized three-man syndicate responsible for a string of tricycle (Keke Napep) thefts across the state. 

The operation, which culminated on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, led to the recovery of eight stolen tricycles and the arrest of the principal suspects. The breakthrough follows a directive from the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, to intensify intelligence-led patrols across the Kano metropolis.

The downfall of the syndicate began on March 26, 2026, when eagle-eyed officers on surveillance patrol along Airport Road, Kano, intercepted a suspicious rider. The suspect, identified as Abubakar Sidi of Kunkumi Village, Kaduna State, was found riding a tricycle with registration number NSR 85 WD.

According to the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, Sidi was unable to provide any proof of ownership or a satisfactory account of how he obtained the vehicle. This prompted an immediate transfer to the **Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for a more "discreet" interrogation.

Investigations quickly unmasked a calculated "modus operandi" used by the gang. Sidi confessed that he had deceived the original owner of the tricycle along Emir Palace Road in Kano before making away with the vehicle. 

The suspect did not act alone. His confession led investigators to his accomplices, identified as Abba Babura and Babangida Haruna. The syndicate specialized in snatching tricycles in Kano and quickly transporting them to Babura, Jigawa State, where they were sold to unsuspecting buyers. Following the arrest of the accomplices, the police successfully recovered seven additional tricycles in Jigawa.

Spokesperson Abdullahi Kiyawa issued a stern advisory to tricycle operators, who are often targeted through subtle drugging or deception. 

“The police appeal to tricycle operators to be vigilant and report suspicious activities,” Kiyawa stated. “We urge operators not to accept drinks or gifts from strangers, as this is a common tactic used to dispossess them of their livelihoods.”

The command has called on residents whose tricycles were stolen under similar circumstances to visit the Police Public Relations Office at Bompai Headquarters or contact the investigating officer on 07010161372 for possible identification and retrieval.

Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori praised the Kwakwachi Police Division and the CID team for their professionalism and technological approach to the investigation. He reaffirmed that the Command remains committed to the IGP’s community policing directives, ensuring that Kano remains a hostile environment for criminal syndicates.

Ojo ADC Members Protest "Imposition" of Seyi Sowunmi for 2027 House of Reps Seat

By: Manoah Kikekon 

OJO, LAGOS –  Hundreds of African Democratic Congress (ADC) members in Ojo Local Government, Lagos State has took to the streets to protest the alleged imposition of Hon. Seyi Sowunmi as the party’s candidate for the 2027 general elections.

The protesters who are primarily a massive bloc that recently defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the ADC, gathered at the Ojo Local Government on Thursday April 2 2026, to send a clear message to the party’s national leadership: Seyi Sowunmi is no longer their choice for the Green Chamber.

Hon. Seyi Sowunmi, the current member of the House of Representatives for Ojo, originally won his seat in 2023 under the Labour Party (LP). Following his expulsion from the LP and a period of political friction, he officially joined the ADC. 

However, his former allies who moved in a "block" to the ADC on December 13, 2025 now accuse him of using "financial strength" to hijack the party's structures.

Abudu Akinlola Olumayowa, a former LP chairmanship candidate now with the ADC, did not mince words during the demonstration. 

"We moved as a bloc to the ADC because everyone knew the people won that seat. Since then, Sowunmi has been trying to bribe his way through the party to silence our voices," Olumayowa stated. "We are choosing humanity over politics and justice over personal interest. The people reject the brazen impunity of imposing him on us today, tomorrow, and forever."

The protest was fueled by deep-seated grievances regarding constituency projects and the Representative's origins. Comrade Olukoya Olusegun Olayinka, an ADC stakeholder, alleged that Sowunmi has failed to deliver the "dividends of democracy" promised during the 2023 "Obidient" wave.

"This man has been harassing us for three years, and he is not even from Ojo; he is from Ifako Ijaiye," Olayinka claimed. "We told him he was the face of Peter Obi in Ojo if he failed to deliver, he failed the people and the movement. He has taken us as his enemies because we demanded accountability."

Comrade Ukaria Igwe, the ADC Woman Leader in Ojo, echoed these sentiments, stating that the constituency has seen zero projects under Sowunmi’s tenure. "He feels he is wise enough to play the Ojo people, but we are saying 'Seyi must go.' No constituency projects, nothing for three years."

The former Deputy Chairman of the Labour Party in Lagos State, Pastor Yemi Ayeni, highlighted the disappointment felt by those who worked for Sowunmi’s 2023 victory. He noted that the mandate was given by the people who were desperate for development after years of APC rule in the area.

"It is a pity that the person we gave the mandate disappointed us. Perhaps it is because he never truly worked for it himself," Ayeni remarked. "He doesn't listen to advice. All the power he has today was given by the people of Ojo, and we are here to say we don’t want him back."

The protesters have vowed to continue their agitation until the ADC leadership ensures a transparent and democratic process for selecting the 2027 candidate, warning that any attempt to bypass the will of the local members could lead to a total collapse of the party’s influence in the Ojo Federal Constituency.

Badagry First: PDP Chieftain Medemaku Endorses SMA for Lagos Governorship

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Samuel Mawuyon Ajose and Abayomi Noah Medemaku 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Lagos State political landscape, Abayomi Noah Medemaku, a prominent leader within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has officially endorsed the governorship ambition of Samuel Mawutin Ajose (SMA) a member of All Progressives Congress (APC).

Medemaku, a former House of Representatives candidate and chairmanship candidate for the PDP in Badagry Local Government, made this disclosure on Thursday, April 2, 2026, during an exclusive interview with News Peddlers. The endorsement marks a significant cross-party alliance as the race for the Lagos governorship seat intensifies.

Despite his deep roots in the opposition PDP, Medemaku emphasized that his decision is rooted in "Badagry-centric" politics rather than partisan loyalty. He stated that the time has come for the division of party lines to take a backseat to the collective progress of the Badagry region.

"This is not about party affiliations now. The interest of Badagry supersedes party friction," Medemaku declared. "As an indigene of Badagry, I have always put Badagry first. We are not APC members, but we are ready to work with him across party lines."

Medemaku clarified that while he remains a committed member of the PDP, he and his supporters are prepared to adopt the work ethic and mobilization strategies of the APC to ensure SMA’s emergence as the next governor of Lagos State.

The endorsement is backed by significant grassroots machinery. Medemaku revealed that his "Rescue Team," which boasts over 5,000 active members, is ready to pivot their support toward the SMA campaign. 

In a strategic move, he noted that if the APC decides to hold a direct primary to select its candidate, his thousands of followers are prepared to register as APC members to ensure SMA clinches the ticket.

Leveraging his past experience as the National President of Lagos State Students, Medemaku noted he still maintains a formidable network across the entire state. "We are not just out to do banners," Medemaku stressed. "We are out to make sure he emerges as the governorship candidate."

The endorsement of Samuel Mawutin Ajose (SMA) by a PDP stalwart highlights a growing trend of regional blocs consolidating power ahead of the 2027 general elections. By prioritizing an "Badagry Lo Kon" agenda, Medemaku’s move suggests that the upcoming Lagos gubernatorial race may be defined more by local interests and competence than traditional party logos.

SMA banner placed at the front of Medemaku House 

Hon. Babatunde Hunpe Disburses ₦20 Million to 200 Badagry Residents

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY — In a major boost to grassroots economic stability, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, has successfully disbursed a fresh round of financial grants totaling ₦20 million to 200 residents. 

The disbursement, held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, marks the fourth phase of the Renewed Hope Asiwaju Cash Support Programme. Each beneficiary received a one-off grant of ₦100,000, specifically targeted at petty traders, artisans, widows, the elderly, and vulnerable groups across the local government area.

Launched during the Chairman’s "100 Days in Office" milestone, the cash support scheme is a monthly intervention designed to cushion the effects of national economic reforms. Hon. Hunpe revealed that the programme is strategically structured to run for 20 months, with a final goal of empowering at least 4,000 residents.

"Governance must be felt by the people," Hon. Hunpe stated during the ceremony. "At a time like this, we cannot fold our arms while residents are struggling. This support is meant to bring immediate relief and help our people scale their small businesses."

The Chairman emphasized that the initiative is a localized extension of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that increased federal allocations must translate into direct, tangible benefits for ordinary citizens.

Addressing potential critics, the Council Boss insisted that while long-term infrastructure is vital, immediate "stomach infrastructure" and business capital are necessary to prevent the collapse of small-scale enterprises. He maintained that the selection process remains non-partisan, benefiting residents based on need rather than political affiliation.

To ensure the funds achieve their intended purpose, Hunpe disclosed that the council has established monitoring and accountability measures. He urged beneficiaries to resist the temptation of spending the ₦100,000 on non-essential items, advising them instead to reinvest in their trades to create sustainable income.

In a move that drew loud cheers from the crowd, Hon. Hunpe announced that the council is already preparing for the upcoming Ileya (Eid-el-Kabir) festival. Plans are underway to organize a Renewed Hope Discount Market, where food items will be sold at subsidized rates. Additionally, a separate round of palliatives is scheduled for distribution before the end of April to further assist struggling families.

The Council Manager, Mrs. Abosede Oluwakemi Senami, praised the Chairman’s consistency, noting that the steady injection of ₦20 million into the local economy every month is already stimulating market activities. 

Supporting this sentiment, the Leader of the Legislative Arm, Hon. Asokere Mautin Bankole, remarked that the true success of the intervention lies in the hands of the beneficiaries. "The real measure of this program is how many of these businesses are still standing and growing six months from now," he said.