New Era for Badagry: Hunpe, Rauf, Kumayon Sworn-In as Council Chairmen Amid High Hopes for Development

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Ibrahim Rauf, Babatunde Hunpe, and Ajose Kumayon 

A new chapter begins in Badagry as three newly elected council chairmen were officially sworn into office today, with residents expressing optimism that their leadership will bring transformative development to the historic coastal region. 

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administered the oath of office to Hon. Babatunde Hunpe (Badagry Local Government), Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Yemaren (RIKAY) of Badagry West LCDA, and Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon of Olorunda LCDA at a ceremony held at Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja.  

The swearing-in follows a decisive electoral victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the three councils. Hunpe secured 27,442 votes in Badagry LGA, Kumayon won a landslide with 28,799 votes in Olorunda LCDA, while RIKAY’s victory in Badagry West LCDA was uncontested, earning him 11,538 votes. The trio now faces the task of meeting the high expectations of residents who are eager for improved infrastructure, better healthcare, and economic empowerment.  

Among the hopeful citizens is Olufemi Iroko, a long-time resident, who urged the new leaders to prioritize accountability. "I pray that Badagry shall prosper and experience multi-faceted development under your leadership. Make yourself accountable, and you will get the best of help and support from the populace," he said.

Each chairman has already outlined ambitious agendas. Hunpe, a former legislator, vowed to leverage Badagry’s tourism potential, improve infrastructure, and enact laws supporting grassroots development. RIKAY, known for his grassroots appeal, has promised to build on his predecessor’s legacy, focusing on inclusive governance. Meanwhile, Kumayon has pledged a "people-oriented" administration, emphasizing education, healthcare, and youth empowerment. 

Despite the optimism, the new leaders inherit lingering challenges, including unfinished road projects and revenue constraints. Outgoing Badagry LGA Chairman Olusegun Onilude had earlier stressed the importance of tax compliance to fund development, a reminder that financial sustainability will be crucial. Additionally, Kumayon and Hunpe must navigate high expectations after their overwhelming electoral mandates.  

As the new chairmen assume office, collaboration between the councils will be vital. Badagry’s strategic location as a tourism and economic hub offers immense potential, but realizing it will require coordinated efforts. With residents watching closely, the trio’s ability to deliver on their promises will determine whether this new era lives up to its promise or falls short of the people’s hopes.  

For now, the mood in Badagry is one of cautious optimism, as the community waits to see if these leaders will truly usher in the long-awaited transformation.