By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a bold assertion that has electrified the political landscape of Lagos State, All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA) has declared that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will hand over the reins of power to him come 2027.
Ajose made the confident proclamation on Friday, 15th May 2026, during a massive solidarity and endorsement rally in Badagry. The gathering saw a powerful coalition of religious, ethnic, and community groups unite to throw their weight behind his ambition, just days before the highly anticipated APC governorship primaries scheduled for Thursday, 21st May 2026.
The endorsement event drew an unprecedented crowd to the historic coastal town, reflecting a deeply rooted desire for regional equity. The coalition featured a diverse cross-section of Lagos residents, including Christian and Muslim organisations, traditional worshippers, market unions, and representatives from the Hausa, Fulani, and Igbo communities residing in the division.
Addressing the roaring crowd of supporters, an elated Ajose insisted that the Badagry Division has earned the right to steer the state's affairs after decades of unwavering loyalty to the progressive political family.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu will hand over to me as governor of Lagos State. It is my turn,” Ajose declared to thunderous applause. “Badagry is an integral part of Lagos State and we have consistently delivered votes for the progressive family. It is only fair that Badagry is given the opportunity to be in the driver’s seat for the collective benefit of all Lagosians.”
For years, political stakeholders within the IBILE divisions (Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe) have debated the rotation of the governorship seat. Ajose positioned his candidacy not just as a victory for his hometown, but as a win for inclusive governance and balanced infrastructural development across the entire state.
“Our emergence will not only bring development to the Badagry Division, but it will also ensure inclusiveness and balanced representation across the state,” Ajose added, urging his followers to maintain absolute focus.
He further charged party members and residents of the division to remain fiercely united, stressing that the true test of their solidarity would be decided at the upcoming party primaries.
The solidarity meeting was heavily attended by influential opinion leaders, signaling that Ajose’s campaign has successfully penetrated the grassroots. Among the notable figures present was the Chief Imam of Badagry Division, Sheikh AbdulHakeem Uwais Akewusola, alongside top Christian clerics, market leaders, and traditional quarter representatives.