Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Join Thousands to Celebrate the Legendary Akran of Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — The ancient city of Badagry stood still on Saturday, May 2, 2026, as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led a high-powered delegation to the final funeral service of the late Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry. 

The monarch, who joined his ancestors in January 2026 at the age of 89, was bid farewell in a grand ceremony at the Freeman Memorial Methodist Cathedral, followed by a massive reception at the Badagry Grammar School. The event marked the climax of a 10-day state-backed funeral programme celebrating a reign that spanned decades and defined the modern history of the coastal kingdom.

Addressing the congregation, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the late Akran as more than just a traditional ruler, but as the very heartbeat of Badagry’s cultural identity.

“We are not gathered here to mourn but to celebrate our revered monarch, the father of this kingdom a custodian of history and a symbol of continuity. His reign became inseparable from the story of Badagry itself,” the Governor remarked. 

Accompanied by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Governor assured the royal family and the people of Badagry that the state government remains committed to upholding the legacy of peace and development championed by the late king.

The 10-day rites of passage, chaired by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, blended solemn religious services with the vibrant, ancient customs of the Ogu people. 

Royal Honors includs Ceremonial gun salutes across the kingdom's quarters and the sacred Iwure rites. The Ajogan Parade: A colorful display of royal heritage that captivated residents and tourists. Community Impact: A novelty football match, medical outreaches at the Akran Palace, and the Akran Legacy Festival.

At the grand reception, the venue was a sea of purple and white aso-ebi, as dignitaries including the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, and business mogul Samuel Ajose mingled with first-class monarchs from across Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

While the church service provided a spiritual farewell, the ceremonies are far from over. A thanksgiving service is scheduled for Sunday, May 3, at the cathedral to express gratitude for a successful transition.

The final traditional conclusion will take place on May 6, 2026, featuring the highly anticipated and sacred Zangbeto procession. This ancient performance will bring the formal farewell customs to a dignified close, marking the final spiritual journey of the monarch according to the deep-rooted traditions of the Badagry Kingdom.

Sanwo-Olu Honors Late Akran of Badagry, Flags Off Cultural Park Construction

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Aholu Menu-Toyi I the Akran of Badagry Kingdom 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called on the residents of the ancient city of Badagry to protect and sustain the indelible legacy of the late Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry.

The Governor made this appeal on Saturday, May 2, 2026, during a grand funeral thanksgiving service held at the Freeman Memorial Methodist Cathedral. The event, which drew a massive crowd of mourners and dignitaries, marked the final religious rites for the monarch whose reign spanned nearly five decades.

Describing the late Akran as a "constant and unshakeable figure of unity," Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the monarch’s 48-year reign was characterized by justice, fairness, and an open-door policy. 

"He was not a man who spoke often, but when he spoke, the room listened," Sanwo-Olu remarked. "His was the wisdom of long years and long service patient, generous, and incorruptible. The best tribute you can offer the Akran is to continue his work, preserve the monuments, and uphold the traditions of this ancient land."

The Governor was accompanied by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Secretary to the State Government Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and a host of traditional rulers and political leaders from across the state.

In a move to immortalize the late King’s commitment to heritage, Governor Sanwo-Olu performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I Cultural Park shortly after the church service. 

The park is envisioned as a hub for cultural preservation, ensuring that the history of one of Nigeria’s most storied kingdoms remains accessible to future generations. The Governor urged the royal family and the palace council to see the project as a symbol of the "covenant of this ancient land."

The sermon, delivered by Prelate Emeritus Sunday Ola Makinde of the Methodist Church Nigeria, centered on the theme, "How are you preparing for your eternity?" The cleric lauded the late Oba for his hospitality and deep love for the people of Badagry.

"We have not lost a king; we have lost a father," Makinde echoed the sentiments of the locals. "The Akran’s life was a testament to service to God until death."

The Prelate commended the Sanwo-Olu administration for its "Red and Blue" rail projects and the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

He urged President Bola Tinubu to ignore critics and proceed with the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, describing it as a "necessary and commendable" project for national integration.

Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I was the longest-reigning traditional ruler in Lagos State’s modern history. Before ascending the throne, he was a distinguished teacher and journalist backgrounds that the Governor noted contributed to his measured and statesman-like leadership.

2027: Badagry Constituency Ii Youths Endorse Legal Expert Hunja Owolabani for Lagos Assembly

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — The political landscape of Badagry Constituency 2 witnessed a significant shift on Friday, May 1, 2026, as hundreds of youths of Badagry Constituency Ii gathered to formally endorse and mobilize for Hunja Owolabani, a prominent legal practitioner and APC aspirant for the Lagos State House of Assembly.

The endorsement rally, held in the heart of Ajara, was characterized by high energy and a "youth-first" agenda, with supporters calling for a transition from career politicians to qualified professionals who understand the intricacies of lawmaking.

Addressing the crowd after successfully picking up his expression of interest and nomination forms valued at over N6 million Hunja Owolabani shared the hurdles his team has faced since declaring his ambition. 

"Since we showed interest, there has been a lot of intimidation and pressure, but we are determined to make an impact and set a legacy for fellow youths," Owolabani stated. "People asked how we would find the funds for the form, but by God’s grace, we secured it today. This is to let every young person know there is nothing they cannot achieve."

Owolabani, who has spent a decade serving in the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, emphasized that his 10-year experience in the administration of justice makes him the most technically prepared candidate for a legislative role. 

"Assembly is about lawmaking. As a civil legal practitioner, I have impacted the administration of justice in Lagos for years. If given this mandate, we won’t disappoint. Badagry has been behind for too long; the sky is just our beginning," he added.

Despite the momentum, the campaign team maintained a respectful stance toward the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership. Arowoka Mesitode, the Director General of the Hunja Owolabani Campaign Group, noted that while they are ready for a credible selection process, they remain loyal party members.

"We are not against the decisions of the party. We are ready for free, fair, and credible selections," Mesitode said. "Whether the party calls for a consensus for or against us, we will be glad, but we insist that the most qualified and credible person for this task is Hunja."

The call for a generational power shift was a recurring theme at the event. Semako Gbesuevi, a member of the organizing committee, argued that the legislative arm requires vibrant minds who understand modern bill-drafting that directly benefits the grassroots.

"Our young people must not let older politicians mortgage our future," Gbesuevi remarked. "When someone has spent 12 years in office and is approaching over 70 years of age, I think it is clearly time for the youths to take over. We need someone like Hunja who knows exactly what kind of bills will benefit the people of Badagry."

Committee Scraps Controversial ‘Access Cards’ for Akran of Badagry’s Grand Finale

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Aholu Menu-Toyi I the Akran of Badagry Kingdom 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — The central planning committee for the final rites of the late Akran of Badagry, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, has officially scrapped its controversial "access card" policy. 

The move comes after intense pushback from indigenes who argued that a monarch who reigned for 49 years as a "father to all" should not have his final farewell restricted to a privileged few.

The committee had initially implemented the card system to manage the high-profile crowd expected at Badagry Grammar School on Saturday, May 2, 2026. However, faced with a brewing backlash and the reality that thousands had already purchased the official Aso-Ebi, the organizers have now opened the gates to the entire federation.

While the committee’s latest statement frames the idea of restrictions as a "fallacy," local observers note that the U-turn is a direct result of the people’s demand for transparency and respect for tradition. 

"How can there be restrictions when Aso-Ebi is sold to all and sundry?" the committee's statement now reads, reversing its earlier stance. "This event will hold in Badagry Grammar School with a seating capacity of more than 6,000 invitees. BGS is an open space... and the event of Saturday won't be different [from previous open programs."

The late Akran’s legacy was built on communal harmony and accessibility. For many in Badagry, the attempt to introduce access cards felt like an attempt to "privatize" a state funeral that belongs to the heart of the kingdom. 

 Indigenes complained that the cards were being distributed selectively, leaving out the grassroots supporters who were the backbone of the Akran’s reign.

The community insisted that a "Street Party" atmosphere celebratory, loud, and accessible was more befitting for the monarch than a restricted gala.

With the access card barrier now removed, Badagry is bracing for a massive influx of visitors. The event remains a high-security, "well-choreographed" affair featuring:

Royal DDelegatios from the Republic of Benin and major Yoruba kingdoms (Ife, Oyo, Abeokuta).

A "Once-in-a-Lifetime" Spectacle of Badagry’s rich cultural heritage.

Massive Participation from residents wearing the official funeral fabric, now guaranteed entry to the BGS grounds.

The committee has urged the public to "enjoy the spirit of the moment" and put aside the friction of the past few days. By bowing to the will of the people, the organizers have ensured that the Akran’s transition remains a symbol of unity rather than a source of division.

President Tinubu Nominates Badagry’s Maupe Ogun-Yusuf for NHRC Board

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Maupe Ogun-Yusuf and Bola Ahmed Tinubu 

ABUJA, NIGERIA — In a major move to strengthen Nigeria’s human rights landscape, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated renowned broadcast journalist and Badagry indigene, Maupe Ogun-Yusuf, to the Governing Board of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). 

The President’s request was formally presented in a letter read by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, during plenary on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The nomination of the seasoned Sunrise Daily co-host has sparked widespread celebration across the Badagry Federation, as residents hail the inclusion of one of their most distinguished voices in the federal corridors of power.

The reconstitution of the NHRC board is aimed at enhancing the institutional capacity of the commission to discharge its mandate effectively. President Tinubu’s 15-member list features a mix of legal giants, media experts, and civil society leaders.

Alongside Maupe Ogun-Yusuf, other notable nominees include: Dr. Salamatu Hussaina Suleiman (Chairman) Dr. Anthony Ojukwu, SAN (Executive Secretary), Mr. Eze Anaba (President, Nigerian Guild of Editors) and Mr. Chinonye Obiaku, SAN

The President stated that these appointments, made pursuant to Section 2(3) of the NHRC (Establishment) Act 2010, are critical for "improving accountability and protecting the fundamental rights of all Nigerians."

Maupe Ogun-Yusuf’s journey from the classrooms of the University of Lagos to becoming a household name on Channels Television has been marked by a relentless pursuit of truth. Her nomination is seen by many as a testament to her years of holding public officials accountable.

In Badagry, local leaders and youth groups have described the appointment as a strategic win for the constituency. 

"Maupe has always been a symbol of excellence for us in Badagry. Her nomination to the NHRC isn't just a win for the media; it’s a win for justice and a recognition of the quality of leaders our ancient city produces," a community stakeholder remarked following the announcement.

Following the formal reading of the letter, the Senate referred the list of nominees to its Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters. The committee, chaired by Senator Mohammed Monguno, has been tasked with screening the candidates and submitting a report within two weeks.

Samuel Mawuyon Ajose Denies Endorsing Hamzat for Lagos Governor

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Samuel Ajose, APC and Obafemi Hamzat 

LAGOS, NIGERIA — Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, a leading governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially debunked viral reports suggesting he has stepped down or endorsed Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat for the 2027 Lagos State governorship race.

In a strongly-worded statement released on Thursday, April 30, 2026, and made available to News Peddlers, Dr. Ajose described the rumors as a calculated attempt to manipulate public opinion and disrupt his campaign's momentum.

The controversy erupted following a purported press release that claimed Dr. Ajose had aligned with the decisions of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) to back Hamzat’s candidacy. However, the aspirant was quick to distance himself from the narrative, stating he was never part of such a process.

"My attention has been drawn to the circulation of a false and unauthorized Press Release... purporting to convey my endorsement of Dr. Hamzat as the Lagos State Governorship Candidate of our Party, and my support for the decisions of the State’s GAC, a process in which I played no part," Ajose stated.

He further clarified that the publication was "fictitious, unsanctioned, and malicious in intent," emphasizing that it does not reflect his personal views or the strategy of his campaign organization.

Dr. Ajose, a prominent figure in the Badagry Federation and Lagos politics, issued a stern warning to media outlets and individuals spreading the "fake news." He categorized the act as a defamatory and potentially criminal instrument aimed at damaging his reputation ahead of the APC primaries.

"I urge the good people of Lagos State and my supporters across the country to disregard it entirely," he said. "All parties who have published or continue to circulate this material are hereby placed on notice: retraction and full deletion must occur within 12 hours. Legal proceedings for reputational and electoral damages will follow without further notice."

The denial comes at a time of intense political maneuvering within the Lagos APC. With recent reports suggesting a transition plan involving the Deputy Governor, the "endorsement" rumor was seen by many as a move to clear the field for a consensus candidate.

By standing his ground, Dr. Ajose has reaffirmed his commitment to the governorship race, signaling that the contest for the Alausa Government House remains wide open. He urged responsible media houses to verify information before publication to avoid being used as tools for political sabotage.

Mukaila Oluwafemi (HMO) Urges Badagry APC to Adopt Consensus Candidates

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Mukaila Oluwafemi (HMO) and APC

BADAGRY, LAGOS — A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Leader of the House in Badagry West LCDA, Hon. Mukaila Oluwafemi (HMO), has issued a passionate appeal for unity and strategic consensus within the Badagry Federation.

In an open letter addressed to the apex leadership on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, Hon. Oluwafemi emphasized that the political future of Badagry hinges on its ability to present a united front for the House of Representatives and Lagos State House of Assembly (Constituencies I & II) seats.

The appeal carries significant emotional and political weight, as it marks the first major electoral cycle since the passing of the revered leader and former Lagos State Head of Service, Baba Sunny Akinsanya Ajose, OON. 

"This is the first electoral cycle since the passing of our revered leader... that Badagry will be presenting its representatives," Oluwafemi noted. "I humbly urge our leaders to uphold the ideals he left behind and honor his legacy with transparency and sincerity."

Hon. Oluwafemi specifically called upon elder statesmen, including Baba Olatunde Onisalu (Olorunda LCDA), Hon. Joseph Bamgbose (Badagry West), and Baba M.Z. Ogunbiyi (Badagry Central), to lead the charge in fostering dialogue among aspirants.

Drawing parallels with other strategic Lagos hubs like Surulere, Oshodi-Isolo, and Amuwo-Odofin, the APC chieftain argued that a consensus model is the most effective way to strengthen Badagry’s bargaining power at the state level. 

Minimized Internal Conflict: Reducing the friction often caused by heated primary elections.

Financial Prudence: Eliminating unnecessary financial burdens on loyal party aspirants.

Political Maturity: Demonstrating to the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) that Badagry is ready for higher responsibilities.

"Failure to unite may result in external imposition of representatives who lack grassroots connection with our people," he warned.

Perhaps the most strategic highlight of the appeal is the call for Badagry to position itself for the Speaker or Deputy Speaker position in the next Lagos State House of Assembly. With the 10th Assembly moving toward its final year, Hon. Oluwafemi believes a unified Badagry is perfectly placed to negotiate for these top-tier legislative roles.

"While broader ambitions like Governor remain important, we must not lose sight of securing these critical and attainable positions," the letter read.

Hon. Oluwafemi also addressed the "sacrifice" made by those who might be asked to step down for the sake of the party. He insisted that such individuals must be adequately compensated with meaningful roles, such as **Commissioners, Special Advisers, or strategic board appointments, to ensure long-term loyalty and internal harmony.

The "HMO" Recommendations:

1.  Urgent Meeting: Convene an immediate summit of apex leaders, stakeholders, and all aspirants.

2.  Voluntary Dialogue: Encourage aspirants to find common ground through negotiation.

3.  Transparent Selection: If consensus fails, implement a credible internal process that everyone can respect.

"Badagry must rise again—through unity, strategic planning, and collective resolve," Hon. Oluwafemi concluded, positioning his appeal as a necessary step for a stronger, more influential Badagry within the Lagos APC family.