By: Manoah Kikekon
 |
| His Royal Majesty Oba Abraham Olatunji Ogabi |
As part of his 10th coronation anniversary celebrations, the Onimeke of Imeke Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Abraham Olatunji Ogabi, has called on the Lagos State Government to prioritize the reconstruction of the Ajara-Ikoga-Zebbe Road in Badagry Local Government Area.
The monarch also urged the completion of the abandoned Badagry Mobile Barracks-Itoga-Aradagun-Mowo-Agemowo road project, emphasizing that these infrastructures are vital for the economic growth of the entire Badagry Federal Constituency.
Oba Ogabi made the appeal during a press conference at his palace on Saturday, May 17, 2025, marking the beginning of an 11-day celebration of his decade-long reign.
The Ajara-Ikoga-Zebbe Road has been in a deplorable state for years, causing hardship for residents and hindering commerce. The monarch stressed that fixing it would boost economic activities and improve living conditions across Badagry.
“The Ajara-Ikoga-Zebbe road has been in terrible condition for decades,” Oba Ogabi stated. “Its reconstruction will not only improve the lives of our people but will open up vast economic and social opportunities across Badagry. We have seen the positive impact of the Aradagun-Imeke-Iworo-Epeme road, and we ask the government to replicate such commitment elsewhere.”
While commending Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for completed projects in the region, the Onimeke urged the state government to revive stalled infrastructure projects to ensure balanced development.
Beyond infrastructure, Oba Ogabi addressed rising political tensions within the All Progressives Congress (APC), where some aspirants for chairmanship and councillorship positions felt aggrieved after the recent party primaries.
The monarch, known for his peace-building efforts, advised dissatisfied politicians to seek redress through internal party mechanisms rather than resorting to violence.
“If you believe you were cheated and you are truly popular, APC is not the only political party in Nigeria,” he said. “There are other parties you can contest under. Election should never be a do-or-die affair. Violence will only set our community back.”
Oba Ogabi also spoke against ethnic divisions between the Ogu and Awori people in Badagry, describing such sentiments as artificial.
“We are one in Badagry,” he declared. “We’ve intermarried, our cultures have blended, and we are essentially a single, extended family. Let us reject anything that seeks to divide us.”
Looking back on his 10-year reign, the Onimeke highlighted key achievements, including: Reconstruction of the Aradagun-Imeke-Iworo-Epeme Road. Rehabilitation of schools in the kingdom. Land survey of Imeke Kingdom to prevent government encroachment. Revitalization of cultural heritage and traditions
The press conference kicked off an 11-day festival featuring: Traditional spiritual cleansing rites, Cultural performances showcasing Badagry’s heritage, Community engagement programs, Entertainment and royal ceremonies.
The event, running from May 17 to May 27, 2025, is set to be one of the most significant cultural gatherings in Imeke’s recent history, symbolizing unity, development, and tradition.