Badagry's Iworo FM 96.3 the Indigenous Radio Celebrates its first Anniversary in Grand Style

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Nigeria’s foremost indigenous radio station, Iworo FM 96.3, in Iworo-Awori Kingdom of Badagry, Lagos State has celebrated its first anniversary. 

The milestone event, held on February 7 2026 marked twelve months of broadcasting excellence, brought together a galaxy of stars, traditional icons, and political heavyweights to honor a station that has rapidly become the "Voice of the People."

The glamorous celebration commenced with a profound session of thanksgiving, where the management and staff offered prayers of gratitude for the station's meteoric rise since its inception in 2025. Despite the typical hurdles faced by new media outlets in a competitive digital age, the organizers highlighted how divine intervention and community support allowed the station to soar above the odds, cementing its place in the hearts of listeners across the Badagry and Olorunda axis.

Among the dignitaries gracing the occasion was the traditional ruler of the land, Oba (Dr.) Oladele Friday Kosoko, the Oniworo of Iworo-Awori Kingdom, who also serves as the Chairman of the Board. He was joined by the Chairman of Olorunda LCDA, Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, along with a host of other traditional rulers, Christian and Muslim clerics, and community leaders who all gathered to witness the historic moment.

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Badagry Royal Turmoil: Lagos High Court Judgment on Kingship Claim to Iworo Stool

Addressing the jubilant crowd, the traditional rulers noted that the presence of Iworo FM has been a catalyst for unprecedented development. One monarch emphasized that the station has acted as a bridge, connecting the Iworo Kingdom to the global stage. "Iworo FM is a good initiative that has attracted development to the community. It has placed Iworo Kingdom on the national map, all thanks to the amazing and laudable work of the management," the monarch remarked during his keynote speech.

The King further lauded the operational growth of the frequency, stating, “Within one year, there has been tremendous progress in the operations of this radio station. I am glad to see the improvements and also congratulate the people of Iworo for having an investment like this.” His words resonated with the audience, many of whom have become daily devotees of the station’s rich indigenous programming.

The highlight of the afternoon was a prestigious award ceremony where the management was honored by 1423 Communications. In recognition of its disruptive impact on the broadcasting industry, Iworo FM 96.3 was bestowed with the awards for "Fastest Rising Indigenous Radio Station in the Badagry–Iworo Axis" and "Best Radio Station in Breaking News Coverage Across the Interlands." These accolades serve as a testament to the station's commitment to journalistic integrity and community-centric reporting.

A representative of 1423 Communications explained that the decision to honor the station was based on merit and consistent performance. “Iworo FM deserves all the accolades it is getting because it has done exceedingly well for the community and Lagos State as a whole. These awards are the result of careful observation of the station’s operations and activities. It is indeed marvelous,” the representative noted during the presentation.

In a heartfelt response, Oba Oladele Friday Kosoko expressed his gratitude for the recognition, reaffirming his dedication to the station's future. “We are very happy with this award. It shows that we are being watched, and to be considered for these laudable awards means a lot to us. I will continue to show commitment to this radio station and will do even more as we move forward in the coming years,” the Board Chairman pledged.

The station gave back to its loyal listeners through an exciting raffle draw. The air was filled with cheers as several participants walked away with valuable prizes, including electric fans, bags of rice, premium clothing materials, and various food items. 

Badagry's Sepameh CDA Unveils 300KVA Transformer, Grading of Major Roads

 By: Rafiu Jossa

New Transformer and Graded roads 

The residents of Agbovipe, Badagry, witnessed a historic moment on Saturday, February 7, 2026, as the Sepameh Community Development Association (CDA) celebrated the installation of a brand-new 300KVA transformer and the completion of several infrastructure projects. 

The event, held in the heart of Agbovipe, served as a "Dividends of Democracy" showcase, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the local community and the Lagos State Government to drive rural development.

Hon. Mukaila Oluwafemi, the CDA Chairman and former Council Leader of Badagry West LCDA, the association successfully secured the high-capacity transformer through the office of the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. The intervention brings a definitive end to years of power outage in area, illuminating the three notable communities under the Sepameh umbrella.

Infrastructure and Road Connectivity

In addition to the electrification milestone, the community celebrated the extensive grading of three major arterial roads. This project, which linked Opa Farm junction to Opa Farm, Agadangba, and extended through Sepameh junction to Sosogameh, was made possible through the goodwill of Hon. Engr. Setonji David, the Chief Whip of the Lagos State House of Assembly Representing Badagry Constituency II, in collaboration with Hon. Solomon Bonu, the Member representing Badagry Constituency I.

Speaking on the impact of these projects, Hon. Mukaila Oluwafemi emphasized the importance of local leadership in attracting state resources.

"Our goal has always been to ensure that no community under Sepameh is left behind in the journey of progress. This 300KVA transformer and the newly graded roads are just the beginning of what we can achieve when we work in synergy with the vision of Governor Sanwo-Olu. We are bringing government closer to the people of Agbovipe," Mukaila stated.

Health, Finance, and Security Services

The celebration was far more than a ceremony; it was a comprehensive service fair. To ease the economic burden on residents, the CDA facilitated free bank account openings with commercial giants like Wema Bank and UBA, alongside free Airtel SIM registrations pre-loaded with airtime bonuses. Health was also prioritized, with hundreds of residents receiving free medical check-ups and essential drugs.

Security remained a focal point, as the DPO of the Badagry Police Division and the Commander of the Lagos State Neighborhood Security Corps (LNSC) were on hand to sensitize the public. Highlighting the need for community cooperation, Mukaila noted:

"Security is a collective responsibility. While we bring infrastructure, we must also ensure our people and properties are safe. I urge every resident to be vigilant and support our security agencies to maintain the peace we enjoy today."

Political Inclusivity and Future Demands

The Apex Women Leader of APC Badagry, Alhaja Kikelomo Ladipo, encouraged residents to solidify these gains by participating in the ongoing APC membership registration. 

While celebrating current successes, the CDA didn't shy away from future needs. They officially solicited support for the completion of the ongoing electrification project and formally requested a new polling unit to accommodate the rapid population growth in the Agbovipe axis.

Closing the event, which also saw the inauguration of new CDA executives, Hon. Mukaila expressed deep gratitude to the traditional rulers in attendance, including Bale Gbodiji, Bale Agalaso, and Bale Agadangba.

"I am humbled by the selfless service of our landlords and the cooperation of our people," he concluded. "With your continued support, we will turn Sepameh into a model for community-led development in Lagos State."

Badagry Royal Turmoil: Lagos High Court Judgment on Kingship Claim to Iworo Stool

 By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Badagry Judicial Division of the High Court of Lagos State has delivered a landmark judgment regarding the long-standing kingship tussle in the Iworo Kingdom. In a ruling that has sent shockwaves through the community, the court declared that the current occupant of the throne was not legally nominated, effectively leaving the ancient stool in a state of legal limbo.

The judgment, delivered on Monday, February 2, 2026, by Hon. Justice O.A. Adamson in Suit No: BD/3665GCMW/2017, followed nearly nine years of intense legal battles. The case was brought forward by Prince Karim Babatunde Adedeji, representing the Iga-Igbaji Ruling House, against the sitting monarch, Oladele Idris Kosoko, and several other defendants including state representatives.

Court Judgment 

A Victory for the Iga-Igbaji Ruling House

In a significant win for the claimants, Justice Adamson ruled that according to the Chieftaincy Declaration registered on February 8, 1958, it is officially the turn of the Iga-Igbaji Ruling House to present a candidate for the stool of the Oba of Iworo. This declaration clarifies the rotational order of the kingship, which had been a primary point of contention for years.

The court further solidified this by declaring that the 5th Defendant (the current occupant) was not nominated by those entitled to do so under the Customary Law of Iworo Kingdom. Consequently, the court ruled that he was not entitled to be approved, appointed, or installed as the Oba by the state authorities.

The Claimant’s Stalled Ascent

However, the judgment did not result in an immediate coronation for the claimant. While the court recognized the Iga-Igbaji house as the rightful lineage to produce the next king, it refused the relief seeking to install Prince Karim Babatunde Adedeji immediately. The court noted that the processes required under customary law had not been fully satisfied to warrant a judicial installation.

Legal experts suggest that this "middle-ground" ruling creates a complex situation for the Iworo Kingdom. Because the court refused to grant a perpetual injunction, the administrative path forward remains clouded by the need for specific traditional rites and administrative approvals that the court cannot perform on behalf of the kingmakers.

Legal Limbo and Community Stability

Speaking with News Peddlers a revered legal practitioner who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, the expert noted that the "kingship seat of Iworo has been left floating." According to the source, the court found the current king's position legally untenable but stopped short of declaring the seat vacant to avoid potential civil unrest within the Badagry corridor.

Quoting the judgment, the lawyer said, "The court cannot declare the claimant as king because he has not yet performed the proper traditional rites required by law," the practitioner explained. "At the same time, the sitting king's foundation has been removed. It is a legal checkmate designed to force a proper traditional resolution. Meanwhile the judgment will be appealed."

Summary of Court Orders

Iga-Igbaji Turn to Rule: GRANTED (Based on 1958 Declaration)
Current King's Installation: DECLARED INVALID.
Installation of Claimant: REFUSED (Pending traditional rites)
Perpetual Injunction: REFUSED

Court Judgment 

Court Judgment 

A History of the Legal Battle

This legal saga began in April 2017, originally filed by Prince Karim Babatunde Adedeji and the late Prince Wale Ewumi. Over the years, the case saw the joining of multiple defendants and survived the passing of the original co-claimant. The transition of the case through various judges, including Hon. Justice E.O. Ogundare in 2018, underscores the weight and complexity of Iworo’s traditional history.

As the community digests this ruling, all eyes are now on the Lagos State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to see how the government will interpret the court's finding that the current occupant lacks the legal right to the throne.

Download Full Judgment: Here..

2027 Ambition: SMA Extends Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ Campaign to Ibadan, Eyeing Lagos Governor Seat

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

SMA Billboard at Ibadan 

IBADAN, Nigeria – In a move that has sent ripples through the South-West political landscape, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, the Badagry-born business mogul and 2027 Lagos governorship hopeful popularly known as SMA, has officially taken the campaign for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election beyond the borders of Lagos State. 

This strategic expansion was marked by the unveiling of a high-impact campaign billboard in the heart of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The massive structure, strategically positioned along the high-traffic Ibadan–Ile-Ife Expressway near Wema Bank, serves as a bold endorsement of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. By establishing a visible presence in one of Nigeria’s most politically significant cities, SMA is not only reinforcing the federal government’s message but also signaling his own growing influence as a regional bridge-builder ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Political analysts suggest that SMA’s decision to campaign in Oyo State is a masterstroke of "trans-border politics." While his primary focus remains the Lagos 2027 governorship race, this outreach portrays him as a loyalist whose commitment to the Asiwaju brand transcends local interests. 

By championing the President’s achievements to the Ibadan electorate and the thousands of daily commuters on that corridor, he is positioning himself as a key pillar of support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-West.

A Strategic Vision for Lagos and Beyond

The initiative aligns with SMA’s evolving political identity, encapsulated in his popular mantra: "SMA GOLD is ready to move Lagos forward." Supporters argue that his ability to coordinate such a high-profile campaign outside his home base demonstrates the organizational capacity and "regional thinking" required to lead a cosmopolitan state like Lagos.

"SMA is proving that leadership isn't just about winning a seat; it's about sustaining the vision of the party at every level," noted a local political observer in Ibadan.

Building a Grassroots Connection

Beyond the glitz of billboards, Dr. Ajose’s movement has been gaining significant traction among the grassroots. From his roots in Badagry to the business hubs of Victoria Island, his "SMA GOLD" brand is increasingly viewed as a fresh alternative for 2027. 

His current focus on President Tinubu’s re-election appears to be a dual-purpose strategy: strengthening the party's national foundation while solidifying his own credentials as a disciplined and visionary party man.

Badagry 2027: SMA Inspects Agbalata Market Project Following Strategic APC Stakeholders' Meeting

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Samuel Ajose and Agbalata Market Project 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a move that blends political strategy with grassroots development, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA), a prominent Lagos 2027 gubernatorial aspirant, conducted an early-morning inspection of the ongoing construction at Agbalata Market on Friday, February 6, 2026. 

The visit came swiftly on the heels of a high-level consultative meeting with All Progressives Congress (APC) Local Government Area chairmen and party executives, signaling a "talk and do" approach to his 2027 ambitions.

The inspection, which commenced at approximately 7:00 AM, allowed Dr. Ajose and his team to assess the progress of the infrastructure project he personally donated to the market. This site visit followed an intensive deliberation held just hours prior at the **SMA Foundation office, where party leaders from across the Badagry axis gathered to discuss regional development priorities and the strengthening of party structures ahead of the upcoming electoral cycle.

During the tour of the construction site, Dr. Ajose emphasized that his focus remains on repositioning Agbalata Market as a premier commercial hub in Lagos State. Accompanied by technical contractors and foundation members, he reviewed the structural developments designed to modernize the trading environment. "Agbalata is the heartbeat of Badagry’s economy," Ajose stated, noting that his interventions are aimed at providing traders with the dignity and infrastructure necessary to thrive in a modern economy.

The project has drawn significant praise from APC stakeholders, who described the initiative as a "practical blueprint" for grassroots governance. By prioritizing market infrastructure, Dr. Ajose is positioning himself as a candidate focused on tangible economic drivers rather than just political rhetoric. The ongoing works are expected to improve hygiene standards, security, and the overall ease of doing business for thousands of local vendors.

This market renovation is not an isolated event but a core component of the SMA Foundation’s broader mission to foster sustainable economic opportunities. As the 2027 gubernatorial race begins to take shape, Ajose’s consistent presence in Badagry’s developmental space serves as a reminder of his commitment to his roots. The project aims to bridge the gap between local trading needs and urban development standards, ensuring that Badagry remains a vital link in the Lagos State value chain.

"We are not just building stalls; we are building a legacy of economic resilience for our people." – Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose

Mobolaji Ogunlende Hails Project L.O.U.D Success as Lagos Inducts New Tech Talents

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Mobolaji Ogunlende presenting cash prize to the top graduating student 

The landscape of youth development in Lagos State reached a new milestone as Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, celebrated the graduation of the 8th and 9th cohorts of the Project L.O.U.D Sanwo-Olu ICT/Skills Acquisition Empowerment Centre. 

Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the Molade Okoya Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, the Commissioner underscored the administration's unwavering resolve to transform the state’s demographic bulge into a powerhouse of productivity.

Addressing the media following the ceremony, Ogunlende emphasized that the core philosophy of the Ministry is rooted in radical inclusivity. He reiterated that the Sanwo-Olu administration is intentionally designing its empowerment schemes to bridge the gap between urban and underserved communities. "The Ministry is after the inclusion of all Lagos youths in all empowerment schemes run by the government, leaving no one behind," Ogunlende stated, framing the initiative as a cornerstone of the state's THEMES+ agenda.

Project L.O.U.D (Leadership, Opportunity, Unity, and Development) serves as a critical pipeline for ICT and vocational training, equipping young Lagosians with the tools necessary to thrive in a globalized digital economy. By providing free access to high-level technical skills, the state government is not just tackling unemployment but is actively cultivating a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs. The graduation of the 9th cohort and the induction of the 10th signify the program's growing momentum and its scalability as a model for regional development.

The Commissioner highlighted that the impact of the ceremony extended beyond the presentation of certificates; it was a celebration of sustainable livelihoods. In collaboration with the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Project L.O.U.D provides a roadmap for youths to transition from trainees to job creators. Ogunlende noted:

"It was truly inspiring to witness the tangible impact of this initiative, which continues to equip young people with relevant skills for sustainable livelihoods."

Ogunlende concluded by commending the project organizers for their consistency and dedication to the vision of a "Greater Lagos." By fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional excellence, the state aims to mitigate social vices and boost the local economy. As the 10th induction ceremony kicks off, the government remains focused on expanding these opportunities to ensure every young resident has a pathway to success.

Nigeria Immigration Officer on the Run After Fatal Shooting at the Border

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Nigeria Immigration Service officers used to illustrate the story 

A routine patrol turned into a diplomatic and humanitarian crisis at the Burdugu entry checkpoint in Baure Local Government Area, Katsina State. On February 3, 2026, a confrontation between an officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and a cross-border traveler resulted in a fatal shooting that has sent shockwaves through the local community and sparked calls for immediate security reforms.

The incident unfolded around 11:00 AM during what was supposed to be a standard screening process. According to eyewitness accounts, Inspector Tijjani Mai Kaho attempted to flag down a motorcyclist entering from the Niger Republic. The rider, identified as 30-year-old Dari Bace Bace, a resident of Bace Bace village in Niger, allegedly failed to comply with the order to stop. In a sudden escalation of force, the officer reportedly discharged his firearm, striking the victim in the head.

Following the discharge of the weapon, the scene descended into chaos. The critically injured Bace Bace was initially rushed to the General Hospital in Baure by bystanders and security personnel. Due to the severity of the cranial trauma, he was swiftly referred to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Daura. Despite the efforts of medical teams to stabilize his condition, the young man succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment, turning a routine traffic stop into a homicide investigation.

In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, the situation took a further turn for the worse when the primary suspect, Inspector Mai Kaho, reportedly fled the scene. While security operatives moved quickly to secure the Burdugu checkpoint and restore order, the officer remains at large. The Katsina State Police Command has since taken over the lead on the case, launching a manhunt to locate the inspector and ensure he faces the legal consequences of his actions.

The tragic death of a foreign national has reignited a fierce debate regarding the use of force and the "trigger-happy" reputation of some personnel at Nigeria’s land borders. Human rights advocates are calling for more stringent training and accountability measures to prevent such extrajudicial killings. Government officials have assured the public that a full-scale investigation is underway to "unravel the circumstances" and maintain the integrity of international relations between Nigeria and the Niger Republic.