By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Prince Samuel Mawutin Ofade and Engr. Setonji David |
BADAGRY, LAGOS – Prince Samuel Mawutin Ofade, a concerned indigene of Ward E in the Badagry Local Government, has issued a call for accountability, better governance, directly challenging the long-tenured representation of Engr. Setonji David, the House of Assembly Member representing Badagry Constituency 2.
Ofade disclosed this on Friday in his New Year broadcast.
Ofade’s critique centers on a perceived vast performance gap. He pointedly contrasts the record of Hon. Setonji David, the current Deputy Chief Whip of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA) seeking a fourth term, with first-term legislators like Hon. Abiodun Orekoya of Shomolu Constituency 1 and Hon. Bonu S. Bonu of Badagry Constituency 1.
He praised the latter for "setting the bar high with impactful motions, transparency, and grassroots engagement," while questioning the tangible benefits of longevity. "Longevity in office means nothing without performance," Ofade stated, dismissing the idea that a fourth term is needed to bring "electoral dividend" as a "fallacy."
A key point of contention is the reported promise that Setonji David would secure the Speakership of LAHA if re-elected for a fourth term. Ofade categorically rejected this, calling it a "false and cheap propaganda to win hearts" and a "deceitful game."
He urged the people of Badagry Constituency 2 to see through this, demanding real deliverables instead of lofty, uncertain titles. "What we need are real constituency projects, real empowerment, and people-oriented representation. True leadership is about delivering results, not just titles," he emphasized.
Ofade revealed personal fallout, alleging removal from his ward leadership due to "politics of bitterness" from the incumbent's camp. However, he juxtaposed this with public gratitude for leaders who showed him appreciation during the festive season, notably highlighting gifts from Hon. Babatunde Hunpe (Badagry LG Chairman), Hon. Bonu S. Bonu (Badagry Constituency 1), and Alhaji Yusuph Oladun Olatunde.
His rallying cry, "Ayikohun - Ojutila - Badagry is Awake," signals a growing demand for change. He advised political leaders to courageously point out shortcomings to their representatives to prevent being taken for granted. "Enough is enough, we are not fools... It’s time for a change," Ofade declared, urging support for "fresh leadership with vision and integrity in 2027."