By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE – Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, a prominent stakeholder and concerned indigene, has issued a strategic "Call to the Good People of Badagry," advocating for the re-election of two key legislative figures: Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan and Hon. Solomon Bonu.
Central to this advocacy is the launch of the Bonu–Sesi Again Movement 2027 (BSAM 2027), a grassroots initiative designed to challenge the long-standing "single-term mindset" that Apata argues has historically hampered the region's progress.
For decades, Badagry has often cycled through representatives every four years, regardless of their performance. According to Hon. Apata, this pattern creates a "newcomer syndrome" where Badagry’s voice in the chambers both at the Federal House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly is constantly reset to zero.
Legislative efficacy is built on seniority, committee influence, and established networks within ministries. When a representative is replaced after only one term, the constituency loses the momentum and the political capital that the incumbent spent years cultivating. BSAM 2027 posits that for Badagry to transition from a "land of potential" to a "land of prosperity," it must embrace leadership stability.
Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan (Federal), Representing the Badagry Federal Constituency in Abuja, Whingan has gained recognition for his focus on human capital. His initiatives in digital literacy and youth entrepreneurship are viewed as essential for integrating Badagry’s youth into the modern global economy.
Hon. Solomon Bonu (State), At the Lagos State House of Assembly, Bonu has leveraged his background in governance and tourism to advocate for the preservation of Badagry’s heritage while pushing for infrastructural expansion.
Together, Apata argues, these two leaders provide a balanced approach to development that covers both national policy and local grassroots needs.
Badagry stands at a crossroads of immense economic opportunity. From its status as a gateway for cross-border trade to its untapped maritime and cultural tourism potential, the region requires "marathon leadership" rather than a "sprint."
The Bonu–Sesi Again Movement asserts that a second term will allow these representatives to:
1. Complete ongoing projects that often stall during leadership transitions.
2. Strengthen legislative influence to attract larger federal and state budgetary allocations.
3. Solidify partnerships with private investors interested in the Badagry tourism and tech sectors.
"A second term is therefore not merely a political reward; it is a strategic investment in the future of Badagry," Apata stated during his address.
The movement is calling on youth organizations, traditional institutions, and professional stakeholders to look beyond short-term sentiments. The goal of BSAM 2027 is to foster a political culture where performance is the primary metric for continuity.