Chief Jesuyon Avoseh Set to Host 7th Anniversary and Akohun Drum & Sport Festival in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Chief Jesuyon Avoseh 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The ancient coastal town of Badagry is buzzing with excitement as Chief Jesuyon Avoseh, the Baale of Luda Tome, prepares to celebrate his 7th year on the throne. To mark this milestone, the traditional ruler has announced the inaugural Akohun Drum and Sport Festival, a dual-purpose celebration aimed at preserving the rich Ogu (Egun) heritage and fostering communal unity.

The festival has received a significant boost with the official endorsement of His Royal Majesty, Aholu Agano Toniyon I, the Aholu of Aganmathen Kingdom, Ajara, Badagry. The monarch hailed the initiative as a vital tool for cultural reconnection, particularly for the younger generation who may be drifting away from their ancestral roots.

The festivities are designed to engage both the body and the soul. The sporting segment, featuring a marathon, is scheduled to kick off on March 28, 2026. This event is expected to draw youth from across the Badagry corridor, promoting physical fitness and healthy competition among the various communities.

Following the marathon, the cultural centerpiece the Akohun Drum Festival will take place on March 30, 2026, at Luda-Ajara. This segment will showcase the intricate rhythms and dances that have defined the Ogu people for centuries, providing a rare platform for traditional drummers to display their mastery.

Speaking on the importance of the event, Aholu Agano Toniyon I emphasized that the Akohun is more than just an instrument; it is a vessel of history. "Akohun is one of the drums we use to perform cultural dances, which is very important to the Ogu people," the monarch stated.

He expressed concern that many children today are unfamiliar with the specific sounds and significance of traditional drums. "If we don’t celebrate festivals like this, how are we going to come together? By celebrating together, our kids will know more about our culture and the identity of their forefathers," he added.

Providing deeper historical context, Chief Ajo Paul, the Gbefa of Vetho-Ajara Kingdom, explained that the Akohun drum holds a unique place in Ogu society. He noted that the drum's function is divided into two distinct realms: the secular and the sacred.

"When used in a traditional or spiritual setting, the drum is no longer referred to as Akohun; it is called Ahlihun," Chief Paul revealed. He explained that these drums provide the rhythmic backbone for native songs and "relics" used during the sacred rites of Vothunsi a period of spiritual seclusion practiced by initiates.

For the host, Chief Jesuyon Avoseh, the 7th-anniversary celebration is less about personal accolades and more about community development. Since ascending the throne as the Baale of Luda Tome, Avoseh has been a staunch advocate for the "Greater Badagry" vision.

"This is an avenue to celebrate the rich culture of the Ogu people and to promote unity among Badagry communities," Avoseh remarked. He believes that by integrating sports with tradition, the festival will appeal to all demographics, creating a shared sense of pride and belonging.

Local observers suggest that the Akohun Drum and Sport Festival has the potential to become a staple on the Lagos State tourism calendar. By showcasing the unique "Ogu" identity distinct from the more commonly known Yoruba traditions in the state the festival offers a fresh cultural product for domestic and international tourists.

Caritas Nigeria Empowers 250 Badagry Farmers with Tools and Elite Seeds

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Catholic Caritas Nigeria has officially flagged off a multi-million naira agricultural intervention in the Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA). On Thursday, March 26, 2026, the organization distributed critical farming inputs, high-yield seeds, and modern machinery to 250 local farmers to foster "Building Sustainable Livelihoods for Vibrant Communities."

The project, funded by the Conrad Hilton Foundation through the Catholic Sisters Initiatives of America, took center stage at Bapo community. The intervention is designed to transform subsistence farming into a sustainable business model, providing farmers with everything from manual hoes and rain boots to advanced pumping machines, sprayers, and specialized pesticides.

According to Mrs. Maria Udongwo, Director of Humanitarian Services for Caritas Nigeria, the program is strategically split into two categories to ensure long-term community resilience. The first group consists of "Accredited Seed Producers" farmers specifically trained and certified by the Nigeria Agricultural Seed Council.

"These producers are empowered to plant improved varieties, not for consumption, but to harvest high-quality seeds for the next season," Udongwo explained. "This ensures that farmers in Badagry West don't have to travel long distances or pay exorbitant prices for quality planting materials; they can buy them at a subsidized rate right in their own backyard." The second category comprises traditional farmers focused on food production for local markets and domestic use.

Representing the Archbishop of Lagos, Reverend Father Benjamin, the Dean of Badagry, delivered a poignant charge to the beneficiaries. He emphasized that the tools were provided to help the indigent members of the community move from a state of lack to a state of self-sufficiency. "Put these tools to good use so you can sustain yourselves and your families," he urged.

Mr. Friday Alhassan, Senior Humanitarian Advisor for Caritas Nigeria, noted that the initiative includes training on "Briquette making" and the use of "Energy-Saving Stoves." This eco-friendly component aims to reduce the community's reliance on firewood, thereby preserving the local forest ecosystem in line with the Papal Encyclical on environmental care.

The Vihento of Badagry and Regent to the Akran of Badagry, White Cap Chief Anthony Oloyede Ajose, graced the occasion with a message of gratitude and accountability. Recalling the famous proverb, he stated: "Give a man a fish, you give him a meal; teach him how to fish, you give him food for life."

The Regent challenged the 250 beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture by ensuring their yields multiply. He prayed for the continued growth of Caritas Nigeria, noting that the empowerment of these farmers would have a ripple effect on the entire Badagry economy.

For many of the farmers, the arrival of the pumping machines and improved seeds represents a turning poipoint. Mr. Desouza Jasper, a beneficiary who underwent specialized training in planting staple crops, described himself as the "happiest man in Badagry" today. 

"I have been trained, and now I have the tools to work. I appreciate Caritas for not just giving us items, but for giving us the knowledge to succeed," Jasper said. His sentiment was shared by many who see the distribution of "improved variety" seeds as a gateway to better harvests and higher profits in the 2026 farming season.

The Bapo flag-off marks a significant milestone in the partnership between international donors and local faith-based organizations. By combining technical training from the Nigeria Seed Council with physical inputs and environmental education, Caritas Nigeria is setting a gold standard for how to build truly "vibrant communities" in the heart of Lagos State.

Badagry Lokan: Youths Intensify 2027 Zoning Demands for Lagos Governorship

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The political landscape of Lagos State is witnessing a historic surge in grassroots activism as the "Badagry Lokan" (It is Badagry's Turn) movement gains unprecedented momentum. Ahead of the 2027 general elections, youths across the division have publicly declared their position, insisting that the time for political equity, inclusion, and the ceding of the governorship seat to Badagry has finally arrived.

At a high-stakes press conference convened by Prince Seyon Adeyemi Akran, Convener of the Lagos West APC Youth, the message was delivered with surgical clarity on Thursday. Akran emphasized that the agitation is not merely a youthful whim but a collective resolve that aligns with the established stance of traditional rulers and key stakeholders within the Badagry Federation.

The core of the "Badagry Lokan" demand is rooted in historical facts rather than mere sentiment. Prince Akran pointed out a glaring political disparity: since the creation of Lagos State in 1967, the Badagry Division has never produced a governor. This 60-year hiatus, according to the group, makes the call for zoning a legitimate appeal anchored on the principles of fairness and justice.

"Badagry has remained a consistent and reliable pillar within the political structure of Lagos, particularly under the All Progressives Congress (APC)," Akran stated. He noted that from electoral support to governance stability, the division has played its role without interruption, yet it remains the only division yet to occupy the state’s top seat.

Beyond the governorship seat, the movement is framed as a broader call for youth inclusion in governance. Akran warned against any political system that sidelines the aspirations of the younger generation, insisting that Badagry’s youths deserve meaningful participation and access to representation.

The convener also linked the leadership demand to the urgent need for accelerated development. Despite being a strategic gateway to West Africa with immense potential in tourism, agriculture, and cross-border trade, Badagry remains in need of massive infrastructural investment. The youths argue that only a leader who understands this terrain can translate these opportunities into tangible benefits for the state.

Reacting to skeptics who question the leadership capacity of the division, Akran dismissed such views as "unfounded and disconnected from reality." He argued that Badagry is home to highly competent individuals with the education, global exposure, and administrative experience required to lead a complex megacity like Lagos.

"Badagry is not lacking in leadership potential; we have simply not been given the opportunity to demonstrate it at the highest level," he asserted. He maintained that the division’s strategic importance within the economic framework of Lagos makes its leadership essential for the state’s long-term expansion plans.

While advocating for the division, Akran highlighted individuals who have already demonstrated capacity through performance and party loyalty. Specifically, he pointed to Samuel Mawuyon Ajose as a figure whose contributions to party development and grassroots mobilization have set him apart.

According to Akran, Ajose has invested significant personal resources in strengthening APC structures and has consistently supported electoral processes across all 12 local government areas in the division. "Ajose’s track record reflects experience, organizational strength, and the ability to deliver under real conditions. Badagry does not need to search beyond its borders for credible leadership," Akran added.

Reiterating their collective stance, the Badagry youths reaffirmed their full alignment with their traditional rulers. They also pledged unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, vowing to remain loyal to his administration and the "Renewed Hope" agenda.

Akran concluded by stating that the "Badagry Lokan" demand should not be seen as divisive. Instead, it is a justified quest for inclusion within a framework of balanced representation. Having demonstrated patience and loyalty for decades, the youths of Badagry say they are now prepared to take their rightful place in the leadership of Lagos State.

Two Women Docked Over Alleged Abduction of 13-Year-Old Girl in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a case that has sent ripples through the historic coastal town of Badagry, two women appeared before a Chief Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, facing serious allegations of conspiracy and the abduction of a minor. The legal proceedings follow a distressing incident near one of Nigeria's most famous landmarks.

The defendants, identified as Funke Aire, 50, and **Divine Richard, 27, were brought before the court following their arrest in the Agbomimo area. The duo stands accused of orchestrating the disappearance of a 13-year-old girl, an act that has sparked conversations around child safety and community vigilance in Lagos State.

According to the Police Prosecutor, ASP Edet Ekpo, the alleged crime took place on March 12, 2026, at approximately 9:23 p.m. The location of the incident Agbomimo, near the iconic First Storey Building in Badagry is a high-traffic area known for its historical significance and tourist appeal.

The prosecution alleges that Aire and Richard conspired to take the young teenager away without the knowledge or consent of her parents. While the specific motives behind the alleged abduction were not detailed in the initial charge sheet, the timing and location of the incident have added to the gravity of the case.

The court heard that the defendants did not evade justice for long. Vigilant members of the Agbomimo community reportedly noticed suspicious movements involving the women and the young girl. Taking swift action, the residents apprehended the duo and promptly handed them over to the police for formal investigation and prosecution.

This grassroots intervention has been lauded by local security observers as a testament to the importance of the "see something, say something" philosophy. Without the quick thinking of the bystanders near the First Storey Building, the outcome for the 13-year-old victim might have been far different.

The defendants are facing a two-count charge bordering on conspiracy and abduction. ASP Ekpo informed the court that these offences are in direct contravention of Sections 268 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. Section 268 specifically addresses the unlawful removal of a person from the custody of their guardians.

Despite the weight of the allegations, both Funke Aire and Divine Richard pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them. Their legal representatives argued for their right to bail, maintaining their innocence as the trial begins.

Presiding over the matter, Chief Magistrate Nurudeen Layeni granted the defendants bail in the sum of N500,000 each, with two sureties in like sum. To ensure the credibility of those standing for the accused, the Magistrate mandated that at least one of the sureties must be a company director or a recognized community leader.

The strict bail conditions reflect the court's commitment to ensuring the defendants return for trial while acknowledging the sensitivity of cases involving minors. The court has adjourned the matter until April 23, 2026, for mention and further hearing.

Call for Support: Preservers Festival 2026 Set to Transform 1,000 Lives in Badagry

By: Manoah Kikekon

 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a move to tackle youth unemployment and foster leadership within rural communities, The Deborah International Outreach has officially announced the Preservers Festival 2026, and calling for support for the success of the event.

This high-impact capacity-building summit is scheduled to take place on April 4, 2026, in the heart of Agbojetho Village, off Owode Apa Road, Badagry.

Mrs Bunmi Onilude the pioneer said, "the festival is designed as a 10-hour transformative "SkillUp" experience, specifically targeting 1,000 teenagers and young adults."

In an era where practical vocational skills are becoming as vital as formal education, this initiative aims to bridge the gap by providing participants with direct access to mentorship, leadership training, and purpose-driven career direction, Onilude added.

The Preservers Festival is more than just a one-day event; it is a strategic intervention aimed at raising a new generation of changemakers. By focusing on the Agbojetho and Owode Apa axis, the organizers are bringing world-class empowerment opportunities directly to grassroots communities that are often overlooked by major urban summits.

"This initiative is designed to equip young people with relevant skills and the mentorship needed to become productive, purpose-driven individuals," the outreach stated in its official call for collaboration.

The curriculum for the day focuses on practical skill development, ensuring that every attendee leaves with a clear roadmap for financial independence and community impact.

To ensure the success of this massive undertaking, The Deborah International Outreach is inviting corporate organizations, philanthropic individuals, and community stakeholders to partner with them. Support is welcomed in the form of cash donations, products, or professional services to help cover training materials, logistics, and resource provisions for the 1,000 expected participants.

For those looking to invest in the future of these young leaders, contributions can be made directly to the organization's dedicated project account: Bank Name: Zenith Bank

Account Name: The Deborah International Outreach

Account Number: 1211483206

For further inquiries regarding partnership opportunities or event logistics, interested parties can reach out via email at: [email protected]. 

Your support is not just a donation; it is a direct investment in the socio-economic stability of the Badagry region.

For more: Click Here

The Badagry Dilemma: Why SMA Must Reconsider His Path to the Lagos 2027 Governorship

By: Manoah Kikekon

Samuel Mawuyon Ajose and APC

The political atmosphere in Lagos State is already charging up as the 2027 gubernatorial race begins to take shape. Central to this conversation is the persistent "marginalization" of the Badagry Division. For decades, the division has remained the only one among the five traditional administrative zones of Lagos (IBILE) yet to produce a governor. 

This historical void has led to the emergence of Samuel Mawutin Ajose (SMA), a prominent son of Badagry, whose governorship aspirations under the All Progressives Congress (APC) have sparked both hope and heavy skepticism. While SMA’s courage is undeniable, a critical look at the internal dynamics of the ruling party suggests that his current trajectory may be hitting a brick wall. 

All indications point to a systemic gatekeeping process that has historically favored candidates handpicked by the party’s hierarchy. If the goal is truly to break the "hegemony" that has kept Badagry in the political shadows, Badagry social advocates are now asking: is it time for SMA to look beyond the APC?

The "Alausa Kingmaker" Factor

The politics of Lagos State since 1999 has been defined by a structured succession plan. As noted by political analyst Babajide Akran, the influence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains the deciding factor in who occupies the Alausa seat. Since 2007, the "selection" process has often favored individuals who fit a specific political philosophy usually those without a pre-existing independent power structure.

This presents a direct challenge for SMA. Unlike previous beneficiaries of the system who were relatively unknown before their emergence, SMA is seen as an independent force with his own financial muscle and a growing grassroots structure. In the world of a Lagos APC political stateman, "independence is often viewed as a threat to the established order rather than an asset."

The Party Chairman "Trap"

One of the most telling signs that the APC may not be ready for a Badagry governor is the current position of Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi as the State Party Chairman. Historically, political parties do not zone the chairmanship and the governorship to the same division. 

By "cleverly positioning" a Badagry son to lead the party, the APC may have effectively managed expectations and neutralized the division’s claim to the governorship seat for the upcoming cycle.

This strategic move by the party leadership serves as a buffer. It allows the party to claim that Badagry is "represented" at the highest level of decision-making, while simultaneously making it technically and politically difficult to justify handing the gubernatorial ticket to the same zone.

A Strategic Alternative: The Senatorial Route?

Many stakeholders, including Akran, have suggested that a more pragmatic entry point for SMA would have been the Lagos West Senatorial seat. This path is often seen as a "strong entry point" into the inner sanctum of power. By securing a legislative seat, a candidate builds the necessary political capital and "federal weight" required to negotiate for the governorship in the future.

However, the counter-argument is that Badagry has waited long enough. Proponents of the "Badagry for Governor" Badagry advocates argue that negotiating for a "lesser" seat is exactly how the division has been kept out of Alausa for so long. They believe that settling for a senatorial or deputy role only prolongs the unjust treatment of the division.

Breaking the One-Party Hegemony

Perhaps the most radical but necessary argument being raised is the need for a multi-party approach. Lagos has long been perceived as a one-party state, which has given the ruling elite the leeway to overlook certain divisions without fear of electoral consequences. If the APC continues to shut its doors against a Badagry candidate, should SMA consider another political party come 2027?

Moving to another political party could amplify the decision of the people and force a real conversation about equity. It would break the "selection over election" cycle that has dominated Lagos politics. A Senior Journalist from Badagry noted that the current system favors those who rely on the "center" for everything structure and finance. By running on an alternative platform, SMA could test the true strength of the Badagry vote.

Defining the Motive: Is it for the People?

Ultimately, the question remains: is SMA’s interest in the seat truly for the people of Badagry? If the collective goal of the division is socio-economic development, infrastructure, and a seat at the table, then the strategy must be flexible. The people of Badagry want progress, and if the APC remains an immovable object, SMA must become the "unstoppable force" by exploring every available political avenue.

The bravery shown by SMA has already inspired a rare sense of unity across the division. Whether he stays to fight within the APC or seeks a fresh mandate elsewhere, the "status quo" in Lagos politics is finally being challenged. For Badagry, the time for "managing expectations" is over; the time for a strategic, perhaps unconventional, move is now.

Zenith Carex CEO Accused of Jailing Employee Over Unpaid Wages

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – A disturbing labor dispute has emerged involving Zenith Carex International Limited, where the Managing Director and CEO, Adelana Olamilekan, stands accused of orchestrating the arrest and imprisonment of a former employee, Samson Adetunji. 

The conflict allegedly stems from a demand for several months of unpaid salaries, leading to a controversial theft charge that has seen the worker remanded in custody.

Adetunji, who joined the logistics firm in July 2025 as an operations officer, was reportedly tasked with supervising dispatch riders using a company vehicle. 

However, sources familiar with the matter reveal that the company struggled with consistent salary payments, leaving many staff members stranded. By October 2025, the financial strain reportedly forced several employees to stop working, including Adetunji, who informed the management he could no longer afford transportation to the office.

The Withheld Vehicle and Allegations of Theft

In a bid to secure his outstanding wages, Adetunji reportedly retained the company’s Renault Logan sedan as leverage. Despite multiple assurances from the firm, the salaries remained unpaid. 

The situation took a legal turn in January 2026 when operatives from the Zone 2 Police Command arrested Adetunji on allegations of theft. While he was initially granted bail and the vehicle was recovered by the company, the CEO allegedly escalated the matter by demanding N5 million for purported damages to the car.

According to reports obtained by SaharaReporters, the former employee was later lured to a police station under the guise of a settlement meeting. 

Instead of a resolution, he was swiftly arraigned before a Yaba Magistrate Court on charges of unlawful seizure and intentional conversion of the vehicle, valued at N10 million. The charges fall under Sections 280 and 340 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.

Remand at Ikoyi Correctional Centre

The legal proceedings have resulted in Adetunji being held at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre since Wednesday, March 18, 2026. 

The charge sheet, marked NO/2026, alleges that the defendant unlawfully tampered with and converted the property of Zenith Carex International Limited for personal use. Family and supporters of the embattled worker, however, maintain that the charges are a retaliatory measure designed to silence his legitimate claim for earned wages.

When approached for a statement regarding these heavy allegations, CEO Adelana Olamilekan declined immediate comment, requesting that inquiries be sent via the company’s official email.

As of the time of publication, neither Olamilekan nor Zenith Carex International Limited has provided a formal response to the claims of malicious prosecution and wage theft.