By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – Hon. Bonu Solomon, the Lagos State House of Assembly member representing Badagry Constituency I, has called on political leaders across the region to prioritize tangible development for their constituents.
The lawmaker made the remarks during the Badagry Youths Civil Reception held on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at the Badagry City Hall, organized in honor of Princess Damilola Sonayon James, the APC Deputy Governorship Candidate for Lagos State.
Addressing a packed hall, Hon. Bonu emphasized that leadership is defined by the infrastructure and socio-economic support facilitated for the Badagry. While praising Princess Damilola’s rise to the deputy governorship ticket, he stressed that the responsibility of transforming Badagry cannot rest on her shoulders alone.
“Damilola is not for Badagry alone; she is for the whole of Lagos. It is on record: as a Commissioner, what have you done for Badagry? Which infrastructure did you facilitate? As an SA to the Governor, what have you done for Badagry? As the Local Government Chairman, what have you done for Badagry?” Hon. Bonu asked, challenging those in attendance to reflect on their individual contributions to the division’s growth.
The speech, which was intended to spark a conversation on grassroots development, was met with unexpected resistance. Misinterpretations of his rhetoric led to disruptions from some youths who felt the address was a direct attack on their respective political leaders.
However, in an exclusive conversation with News Peddlers following the event, Hon. Bonu clarified that his comments were intended to be a neutral, inclusive call to action for all stakeholders himself included.
“My statement was directed towards all officeholders, including myself. I am an officeholder representing the Badagry people,” Hon. Bonu explained.
He noted that during his address, he observed several political figures nodding in agreement, reinforcing his belief that the need for development is a shared concern. "All the responsibility for Badagry’s development shouldn’t be left to the deputy governorship candidate alone," he added.
The lawmaker expressed his disappointment that the message was misconstrued, reiterating that his intention was to foster a culture of service and accountability. He urged the youth to focus on the broader objective: ensuring that every official whether at the local or state level actively contributes to the progress of the Badagry.