Governorship or Nothing, Badagry Youth Insist
The clamour for the governorship of Lagos to be zoned to Badagry Division gained renewed momentum as youths from the division rose in unison to demand equity, inclusion, and political recognition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Addressing a press conference on behalf of Badagry youths, Prince Seyon Adeyemi Akran, Convener of Lagos West APC Youth, described the moment as historic, declaring that the younger generation is united, aware, and determined to support the position earlier taken by traditional rulers across the division.
He said the message from Badagry is clear and unequivocal: Badagry Lokan.
According to him, the demand is not driven by sentiment but by verifiable historical realities. Since the creation of Lagos State in 1967, through both military and civilian administrations, Badagry Federation has not produced a governor.
“This is not an accusation. It is a fact,” he stated, adding that as critical stakeholders in the state, the people of Badagry are justified in demanding fairness and equitable representation.
“In the spirit of equity, fairness, and unity, Badagry deserves its rightful place,” he added.
He emphasised that Badagry has never been on the margins of political participation, noting that the division has consistently contributed to electoral victories and governance stability, particularly under the All Progressives Congress.
“We are contributors. We are participants. We are stakeholders. From elections to governance support, Badagry has stood firmly with the progressive movement. We have shown loyalty, we have delivered, and we have remained committed,” he said.
Akran stressed that the agitation also represents the aspirations of young people in the division who must not be sidelined in the evolving political structure of the state.
“We speak as the leaders of tomorrow, and we say clearly that the system must not disadvantage Badagry youths. We deserve inclusion, opportunity, and representation. Our community is yearning for development, infrastructure, and economic progress,” he stated.
Responding to claims in some quarters that Badagry lacks the capacity to lead Lagos, he dismissed such assertions as unfounded, insisting that the division is endowed with competent individuals capable of governing the state.
“Badagry is blessed with men and women of character and integrity, individuals with education and exposure, and leaders with proven experience. Badagry is not lacking. Badagry is ready,” he declared.
He further highlighted the strategic importance of Badagry to the future of Lagos, describing it as a critical economic gateway with immense untapped potential.
“Badagry is a gateway to West Africa. It is rich in tourism potential, endowed with vast agricultural land and natural resources, and positioned for regional trade and economic expansion. Badagry is not peripheral. Badagry is strategic,” he said.
According to him, the current moment requires leadership that is deeply rooted in the realities of Badagry and capable of translating its opportunities into tangible development for the entire state.
He noted that among the sons of the division are individuals who have consistently demonstrated commitment to the progress of the party, the state, and the nation, stressing that the call for Badagry Lokan is backed by proven leadership capacity.
In particular, he pointed to Samuel Mawuyon Ajose as a notable example of such leadership, citing his contributions to party development and grassroots mobilisation.
He said Ajose has invested personal resources in strengthening party structures, supported electoral processes across all 57 local government areas with logistics and coordination, and mobilised thousands of supporters across Lagos and the South West in support of progressive leadership.
He added that Ajose has also actively promoted the Renewed Hope agenda through sustained advocacy and grassroots engagement.
“These are not claims. These are verifiable contributions. These are not theoretical credentials. These are real actions under real conditions,” Akran said.
He maintained that such efforts go beyond symbolism, describing them as practical investments in governance, political structure, and stability.
“They reflect experience, they show competence, and they demonstrate leadership under real conditions,” he added.
According to him, at a time when the question is not just about who should lead but who is prepared to lead, Ajose has distinguished himself through sacrifice, organisation, and consistent commitment.
“This is the kind of leadership Lagos requires. This is the kind of capacity that inspires confidence. This is the kind of proven readiness that positions a leader for the responsibility of governing Lagos State,” he said.
He stressed that Badagry does not need to look beyond its borders for capable leadership, insisting that the division has individuals who are ready to take on the responsibility of governance.
Reaffirming the collective position of Badagry youths, Akran declared total alignment with the stance of traditional rulers, calling for the governorship seat of Lagos State to be zoned to Badagry Federation.
He also reiterated unwavering support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledging loyalty to his administration and the Renewed Hope agenda.
“We remain loyal, committed, and reliable. We stand with the Renewed Hope agenda. We stand with the APC,” he said.
He concluded by emphasising that the demand for Badagry Lokan should not be misconstrued as divisive, but rather understood as a legitimate call for justice and inclusion.
“This is not division. This is inclusion. This is not agitation. This is justice. Badagry has waited. Badagry has contributed. Badagry has delivered. Badagry is ready,” he declared.
