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.

Nigeria’s Power Grid Near Collapse: DisCos Hemorrhage N2.4trn as Debt Hits N6trn

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA — Nigeria’s power sector is teetering on the edge of systemic failure as new data reveals that Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) recorded a staggering N2.349 trillion in financial losses over the last two years. 

The liquidity crisis, fueled by billing inefficiencies and a massive collection gap, has pushed the industry’s total debt to an estimated N6 trillion as of December 2025. This financial black hole is now manifesting as nationwide blackouts, with grid supply plummeting from 4,600MW to less than 3,500MW in early 2026.

A Breakdown of the Financial Hemorrhage

According to commercial performance data from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the financial health of DisCos has deteriorated rapidly: 2024 Losses: N1.015 trillion, 2025 Losses: N1.334 trillion (a 31.4% year-on-year increase), Primary Culprits: Billing inefficiencies (N649.87 billion) and weak revenue collection (N684.28 billion).

Despite slight fluctuations throughout 2025, the fourth quarter saw a 16% spike in losses, signaling that current recovery strategies are failing to stem the tide.

The "Dark" Reality: Generation Drops and Gas Shortages

The financial instability at the distribution end has created a ripple effect across the entire value chain. Generation Companies (GenCos), currently owed over N6 trillion, are struggling to pay gas suppliers. In response, gas producers have scaled back deliveries, forcing thermal plants to shut down units.

"No one is willing to pay for electricity not supplied," says Chijoke James, Chairman of the Electricity Consumers Association of Nigeria, pointing to the vicious cycle of "estimated billing" and consumer resistance.

In major hubs like Abuja and Delta State, "rolling blackouts" have become the norm. Residents in areas like Karu and Lokogoma report receiving as little as three hours of power daily, forcing a reliance on expensive diesel and petrol generators.

The Villa's Exit: A Vote of No Confidence?

In a symbolic blow to the sector, the Presidential Villa has begun transitioning to a N17 billion solar mini-grid project. While officials cite "energy security," the move has drawn sharp criticism from industry leaders.

Engr. Chijoke Okwuokenye, Acting MD of AEDC, argued that the exit sends the wrong signal: “The Villa could easily have been assured uninterrupted power supply with a little more investment in storage... This would have demonstrated confidence and support for the sector.”

The Path Forward: Metering or Bailouts?

Experts argue that the sector's survival hinges on transparency rather than government interventions. Mr. Bode Fadipe, Lead Consultant at Sage Consulting, emphasizes that "end-to-end metering" is the only solution to the trust deficit.

"Sector operators believe the Federal Government will always provide a bailout," Fadipe noted, calling for more political will to enforce accountability. Without a radical shift toward accurate measurement and collection, the Nigerian lights may continue to flicker or go out entirely.

Ex-Acting Accountant-General Bags 72 Years Over N868m Fraud

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA, Nigeria – In a landmark judgment for Nigeria’s anti-corruption crusade, the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced the former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Chukwunyere Anamekwe Nwabuoku, to 72 years in prison.

The conviction follows a rigorous prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving a staggering **N868.46 million money laundering scheme.

The Verdict: A Fall from Grace

The EFCC confirmed the sentencing on Monday via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle. Nwabuoku was found guilty on nine amended counts of money laundering. The court's decision marks the end of a high-profile trial that began following his arraignment on January 15, 2025.

Nwabuoku’s tenure as the nation's top accountant was brief and shrouded in controversy. He was appointed in May 2022 to replace the suspended Ahmed Idris who was himself embroiled in an N80 billion fraud scandal only to be removed just weeks later.

The Anatomy of the Fraud

The prosecution successfully argued that Nwabuoku, during his previous stint as the Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence (2019–2021), conspired with several shell companies to siphon public funds.

Entities involved in the laundering scheme included: Temero Synergy Concept Limited, Turge Global Investment Limited, Laptev Bridge Limited, Arafura Transnational Afro Limited.

The EFCC alleged that these companies were used to convert funds that were proceeds of unlawful activities, a direct violation of Section 18 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.

"The conviction of a high-ranking official like Nwabuoku sends a clear signal that the era of impunity in the civil service is drawing to a close," an EFCC spokesperson stated.

Lagos Assembly Member Bonu Solomon Facilitates 5 Transformers for Badagry Communities

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a major move to tackle electricity challenges and improve the socio-economic wellbeing of his constituents, Hon. Bonu Solomon, the lawmaker representing Badagry Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, has facilitated the delivery of five brand-new transformers to various communities. 

The high-capacity electrical units were officially delivered on Sunday, March 22, 2026, sparking widespread celebration among residents who have endured years of power instability. The distribution spans across both Olorunda LCDA and Badagry Local Government, ensuring that the benefits of the "Greater Lagos" vision reach the grassroots level.

The intervention was strategically split to address the most pressing needs within the region. In Badagry Constituency 1, three transformers were allocated to the Iworo-Gbanko Ward, specifically benefiting: Oko-Agbon Kekere/Obele, Olorunda LCDA. Itesiwaju-Ilu, Imeke, Olorunda LCDA. Whitehouse CDA, Ilado, Olorunda LCDA.

Extending his impact beyond his primary constituency, Hon. Bonu also facilitated two additional units for Badagry Constituency 2, targeting: Baale Way, Atinprome, Badagry Local Government. Ajagbe CDA, Atinprome, Badagry Lagos.

 

Addressing the gathering at his own residential community, Hon. Bonu expressed his gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadiri Hamzat for their unwavering support. He assured residents that the transformers would not just be "dropped" but properly connected to the national grid to ensure immediate functionality.

"I won't relax the responsibility the people have given me as their representative," Hon. Bonu stated. "More projects are coming. All we ask is total support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates heading into 2027. We want to surpass our previous vote counts to ensure even more development returns to Badagry."

In a further boost to the community, the lawmaker also promised a forthcoming distribution of free prepaid meters to end the era of estimated billing.

The atmosphere in the beneficiary communities was one of profound relief. Hon. Tunde Hunpatin, Chairman of the Whitehouse CDA in Ilado, revealed that the community had been struggling with transformer issues for 12 years. 

"We intensified our efforts over the last eight years with letters to the distribution company in Ijora to no avail. Hon. Bonu promised to support us, and today, it has materialized. He is a wonder man," Hunpatin remarked.

Similarly, Mr. Ibrahim Adekunle, Chairman of Oko-Agbon Kekere, noted that their cluster of three CDAs (Oko-Agbon Kekere, Oko-Agbon Unla, and Irete) had suffered for over a year without a functional unit. 

Chief Medepo Joshua, the Baale of Atinprome, shared his surprise at the speed of the intervention: "I called him on the 14th about our spoilt transformer. He promised a replacement, and today it is here. I am beyond happy."

2027: Yegovodu Movement Backs Bonu Solomon for Second Term, Cites "Extensive Delivery"

By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a major early boost for the 2027 electoral cycle, the influential Yegovodu Movement has officially endorsed Hon. Bonu Solomon, the member representing Badagry Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, for a second term in office.

The endorsement, which took place on Sunday, was characterized not just as a show of support but as a formal "declaration of intent" by the people, urging the lawmaker to recontest his seat to continue his developmental strides.

Led by Olufemi Sewanu Iroko, the group highlighted Hon. Bonu’s performance over the last two and a half years as the primary driver for their decision. Beyond the traditional legislative role of lawmaking, Iroko praised Bonu's prowess in the "art of lobbying," which has brought tangible benefits to his constituents.

"We have looked at your work... we feel you have delivered extensively," Iroko stated during the presentation. "Beyond making laws, you have shown to be someone who has a talent for lobbying. That is why your constituents and beyond are enjoying the dividends of democracy."

The group cited significant achievements during Bonu's first 30 months in office. The movement solidified its stance by donating campaign souvenirs to kickstart the 2027 awareness drive. Iroko emphasized that the call to return to the Lagos State House of Assembly was a collective plea from the people of Badagry.

Visible moved by the gesture, Hon. Bonu Solomon expressed his gratitude to the Yegovodu Movement for their proactive support. He reaffirmed his commitment to the progress of the constituency.

"I thank you for your support towards me and Badagry," Bonu said. "I promise not to disappoint you."

2027: Hon. Padonu Ismail Targets Badagry Assembly Seat, Demands End to "Sentimental Politics"

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Padonu Ismail Sewedo 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The race for the 2027 Lagos State House of Assembly has gained early momentum as Hon. Padonu Ismail Sewedo officially declared his ambition to represent Badagry Constituency I, premising his campaign on a bold call for equity and a departure from the political status quo.

In a statement released on Monday, the Ajido-born grassroots mobilizer challenged the existing "political sharing formula" in the region, urging stakeholders to prioritize competence and capacity over favoritism. 

Hon. Sewedo’s declaration isn't just a bid for office; it’s a critique of the "sentimental considerations" he argues have long stifled Badagry’s growth. He emphasized that for the division to thrive, the selection process for leadership must be rooted in merit.

“The future of Badagry depends on electing leaders who possess both grassroots understanding and the technical know-how to deliver impactful representation,” Sewedo stated.

As a "full-blooded" indigene who has spent years in the political trenches, Hon. Sewedo is positioning himself as a bridge between traditional grassroots mobilization and modern governance. His legislative roadmap is anchored on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with specific focus on:

Youth Empowerment: Creating sustainable pathways for the younger generation.

Quality Education: Improving infrastructure and access to learning.

Economic Growth: Leveraging Badagry’s unique position for trade and tourism.

Social Inclusion: Ensuring no community is left behind in the legislative process.

Addressing party leaders and the electorate directly, Sewedo warned of the long-term risks of choosing "political convenience" over effectiveness. He argues that the cost of poor representation is a slowdown in development that the people can no longer afford. 

With his slogan, “Send me, I can represent better,” he is making a clear pitch: he has paid his dues, he knows the pulse of the people, and he is ready to translate their aspirations into legislative results at the Alausa Assembly.