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By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – The political landscape of Lagos State is witnessing a historic surge in grassroots activism as the "Badagry Lokan" (It is Badagry's Turn) movement gains unprecedented momentum. Ahead of the 2027 general elections, youths across the division have publicly declared their position, insisting that the time for political equity, inclusion, and the ceding of the governorship seat to Badagry has finally arrived.
At a high-stakes press conference convened by Prince Seyon Adeyemi Akran, Convener of the Lagos West APC Youth, the message was delivered with surgical clarity on Thursday. Akran emphasized that the agitation is not merely a youthful whim but a collective resolve that aligns with the established stance of traditional rulers and key stakeholders within the Badagry Federation.
The core of the "Badagry Lokan" demand is rooted in historical facts rather than mere sentiment. Prince Akran pointed out a glaring political disparity: since the creation of Lagos State in 1967, the Badagry Division has never produced a governor. This 60-year hiatus, according to the group, makes the call for zoning a legitimate appeal anchored on the principles of fairness and justice.
"Badagry has remained a consistent and reliable pillar within the political structure of Lagos, particularly under the All Progressives Congress (APC)," Akran stated. He noted that from electoral support to governance stability, the division has played its role without interruption, yet it remains the only division yet to occupy the state’s top seat.
Beyond the governorship seat, the movement is framed as a broader call for youth inclusion in governance. Akran warned against any political system that sidelines the aspirations of the younger generation, insisting that Badagry’s youths deserve meaningful participation and access to representation.
The convener also linked the leadership demand to the urgent need for accelerated development. Despite being a strategic gateway to West Africa with immense potential in tourism, agriculture, and cross-border trade, Badagry remains in need of massive infrastructural investment. The youths argue that only a leader who understands this terrain can translate these opportunities into tangible benefits for the state.
Reacting to skeptics who question the leadership capacity of the division, Akran dismissed such views as "unfounded and disconnected from reality." He argued that Badagry is home to highly competent individuals with the education, global exposure, and administrative experience required to lead a complex megacity like Lagos.
"Badagry is not lacking in leadership potential; we have simply not been given the opportunity to demonstrate it at the highest level," he asserted. He maintained that the division’s strategic importance within the economic framework of Lagos makes its leadership essential for the state’s long-term expansion plans.
While advocating for the division, Akran highlighted individuals who have already demonstrated capacity through performance and party loyalty. Specifically, he pointed to Samuel Mawuyon Ajose as a figure whose contributions to party development and grassroots mobilization have set him apart.
According to Akran, Ajose has invested significant personal resources in strengthening APC structures and has consistently supported electoral processes across all 12 local government areas in the division. "Ajose’s track record reflects experience, organizational strength, and the ability to deliver under real conditions. Badagry does not need to search beyond its borders for credible leadership," Akran added.
Reiterating their collective stance, the Badagry youths reaffirmed their full alignment with their traditional rulers. They also pledged unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, vowing to remain loyal to his administration and the "Renewed Hope" agenda.
Akran concluded by stating that the "Badagry Lokan" demand should not be seen as divisive. Instead, it is a justified quest for inclusion within a framework of balanced representation. Having demonstrated patience and loyalty for decades, the youths of Badagry say they are now prepared to take their rightful place in the leadership of Lagos State.