By Peter Dansu In a bold and emotional declaration of commitment, the newly appointed Commissioner II representing Badagry Division on the...
By Peter Dansu
In a bold and emotional declaration of commitment, the newly appointed Commissioner II representing Badagry Division on the Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Hon. Yahaya Lateef — fondly called WAY — has promised to be a fair and inclusive representative for all local governments under his watch.
Speaking at a colourful reception held in his honour on May 24, 2025, in Badagry, Hon. Yahaya assured constituents that no local government would be shortchanged in employment opportunities and recruitment distribution.
“I’ll not shortchange any of the local governments,” he vowed. “I’ll ensure balance. I’ll make sure all the leaders in the division are happy with me at the end of the day — and, most importantly, that the people I represent are proud of my service.”
He added confidently, “Expect many good things to come into Badagry Division. Remember, this is a Badagry Division thing.”
The well-attended event drew political leaders, community stakeholders, friends, and family — many of whom described his appointment as long overdue.
Hon. Yahaya, who had contested unsuccessfully for the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015, 2019, and 2023, described the appointment as a miraculous turn in his political journey.
“This appointment is nothing short of a miracle,” he said. “It’s a reward for patience, resilience, loyalty, and belief in God’s perfect timing. I’ve faced many setbacks, but I never gave up. I always believed that when it’s your time, nothing can stop it.”
He offered heartfelt gratitude to key figures who supported his emergence, singling out Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, APC State Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Hon. Segun Onilude, Hon. Adeniran Onilude, Hon. Tolani Sule, the WAY Foundation, and the entire WAY Campaign Organisation.
"In anything I do, the leaders must be involved. I trust them to guide with fairness and justice," he said.
Turning to young politicians and aspirants, WAY offered words of encouragement drawn from personal experience.
“I’ve contested three times and lost, so I understand the pain. But don’t lose hope. Accept party decisions in good faith and keep working. Leadership comes from God — not man. Your time will come.”
Veteran politician and respected elder, Chief SS Pot Balogun, praised the appointment, calling it a long-awaited recognition of Yahaya’s humility and perseverance.
“WAY has tried over the years. Even though he was denied in the past, God’s time has now come. We thank the Lagos State Government for finally rewarding his efforts.”
Also present was Hon. Babatunde Hunba Joseph, a close friend and former chairmanship aspirant, who reaffirmed his bond with the new commissioner.
“I’ve known WAY for nearly 20 years. Politics may be about interest, but true friendship goes beyond politics. That’s why I’m here — to celebrate him.”
Hunba used the occasion to call for greater unity across Badagry Division.
“We must build one Badagry. Let’s forget past mistakes and chart a better future for our people. It’s our duty as the next generation.”
The reception’s atmosphere was nothing short of electric, as Kingsley Ogungbe and his Synchro Beats energized the crowd with their signature tungba sound, getting guests on their feet in celebration of a man many now see as a symbol of hope for the division.
With his appointment, Hon. Yahaya Lateef enters a new chapter — one that, by his own promise, will be defined by fairness, service, and the collective pride of Badagry Division.
Source: Badagry Parrot
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