By: Dovoeke Daniel
 |
| Prof. Paul-Sewa Thovoethin and Ajose Peter Kumayon |
BADAGRY, LAGOS – Professor Paul-Sewa Thovoethin, a renowned of Professor of Public Policy and Comparative Politics at Lagos State University (LASU), has formally commenced a high-level advocacy tour. The mission: to build a powerful coalition for the "Badagry for Governor Agenda 2027," a historic bid to see an individual from the Badagry Division elected as the next Governor of Lagos State.
The inaugural visit was to Honourable Ajose Peter Kumayon, the Chairman of Olorunda LCDA, Badagry.
Professor Thovoethin, who serves as the Convener and Chairman of the agenda, led his team to the chairman's office for what was described as a foundational meeting. The deliberations focused on the strategic pathways and collective action required to turn this ambitious goal into a reality. This visit marks the first step in a broader campaign to engage stakeholders across all five Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) that constitute the Badagry Division.
Honourable Ajose Peter Kumayon received the delegation warmly and immediately expressed his unequivocal support for the initiative. In a powerful address, the chairman framed the pursuit of political power as a serious endeavor. “Political power is not given on a platter of gold. We must strive. When we have ambition, it should be followed by a mission,” he stated, urging the group to remain focused and avoid distractions, noting that consistency and truth are key to achieving their objective.
Chairman Kumayon provided a stark analysis of Badagry's political history, acknowledging that the division has been "on the back burner for several years." He attributed the political dominance of other Lagos divisions to strategic investment and risk-taking. “Politics remains a business or an investment. Other divisions have taken the lead in the scheme of things in Lagos State for a very long time through political investment and risk-taking,” he said, challenging Badagry residents to ready themselves for the political gamble necessary to secure the governorship.
Reaffirming his commitment, Honourable Kumayon declared the agenda “a good fight” and promised his full support. Drawing from his extensive experience in Badagry politics, he vowed not to relent in his efforts to advance the division's interests. He concluded his remarks with a prayer, expressing his hope that the "big dream" which prompted the visit would ultimately become a tangible reality for the people of Badagry.
In his response, Prof. Thovoethin thanked the chairman for his profound encouragement and steadfast support. He emphasized that the agenda is a collective struggle for representation and development.
Honourable Kumayon reiterated his dedication to serving humanity, confidently asserting that with determination and divine guidance, the struggle would be successful. This meeting signals the beginning of a coordinated, division-wide movement that could potentially alter the trajectory of leadership in Nigeria’s economic powerhouse.