By: Manoah Kikekon
The Concerned People of Badagry, has called on President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure that the next Governor of Lagos State in 2027 emerges from Badagry. The group argues that despite Badagry’s unwavering loyalty to the ruling party and its rich historical significance, the division has never produced a governor or deputy governor since Lagos State was created 58 years ago.
In a strongly-worded statement signed by notable Badagry leaders including former Lagos State Executive Council member Hon. Olanrewaju Saka Shenayon, ex-Federal House of Representatives member Hon. Sejuro Samuel, and retired Permanent Secretary Dr. Babatunde Olaide-Mesewaku the group lamented the persistent political exclusion of Badagry indigenes.
"Badagry has been the political scapegoat in Lagos State’s power equation," the statement read. "While other divisions Lagos Island, Ikeja, Ikorodu, and Epe—have all produced governors, Badagry remains conspicuously absent from the list. It’s time for justice, fairness, and equity."
The group highlighted Badagry’s immense contributions to Lagos politics, noting that the division has consistently delivered over 90% of its votes to the APC since 1999. "While opposition parties thrive in other parts of Lagos, Badagry remains an APC stronghold," the statement emphasized. "Yet, our loyalty has not translated into political recognition at the highest level."
Badagry’s historical significance was also underscored. As the first point of contact for European missionaries and traders, the birthplace of British colonial administration in Nigeria, and a key player in the nation’s political evolution, the group argued that Badagry deserves more than perpetual relegation.
While acknowledging that Ojo Local Government (within Badagry Division) produced two deputy governors Mrs. Sarah Sosan (2007-2011) and Mrs. Oluranti Adebule (2015-2019) the group insisted that Badagry Local Government itself has never been given the opportunity. "We’ve had enough of being second fiddle," the statement declared. "2027 must be the year Badagry ascends to the governorship."
The group appealed directly to President Tinubu, urging him to uphold his reputation for equity by supporting a Badagry candidate in 2027. "Your Excellency, Badagry’s loyalty to you and the APC is unquestionable," the statement read. "We ask not just for the governorship but also for key federal appointments to finally integrate Badagry into Nigeria’s political mainstream."