By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – Professor Paul-Sewa Thovoethin of the Lagos State University (LASU) on Monday visited the revered palace of the Akran of Badagry, His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi 1, to get the blessings of the royal father as he begins a grassroots movement advocating for an indigene of Badagry Division to become the next Governor of Lagos State in 2027.
The professor, spearheading the "Badagry for Governor" advocacy, was warmly received by the Akran and his council of chiefs, marking a crucial step in uniting traditional stakeholders under a common vision for the division's political future. This high-level meeting underscores the growing consensus that the time is ripe for Badagry to produce the state's chief executive.
During the meeting, Professor Thovoethin passionately articulated his dream, highlighting the urgent need for a unified path forward for the Badagry Federation. He emphasized that his visit was to receive the royal father's blessings and the council's strategic advice as he mobilizes support across the state, focusing on integrated political, economic, and social development strategies for the region.
Responding on behalf of the throne, the Depegan of Badagry Kingdom, Chief T.W Giro, acknowledged that the clamour was long overdue and expressed the royal fathers' delight in seeing a distinguished son and professor leading the charge. However, he offered crucial advice, noting that the endeavor is financially intensive and must be media-driven. He sternly warned against allowing partisan political interests to fracture the movement, stressing the importance of absolute unity.
In a briefing with journalists after the engagement, Professor Thovoethin revealed the depth of his strategy. “We need one voice to achieve this, and that is why I've taken my time to meet relevant stakeholders. I'm happy that someone has even shown interest, which is very commendable,” he stated, hinting at burgeoning support within influential circles that could translate the long-held aspiration into a tangible reality.
To solidify the mission, Professor Thovoethin presented a formal development proposal to the Akran, outlining a robust, multi-phased agitation plan. The comprehensive strategy includes extensive media awareness campaigns across print, electronic, and digital platforms, the consistent release of policy documents to shape public discourse, and the active mobilization of Badagry-based Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and public opinion builders to champion the cause relentlessly until 2027.