By Peter Dansu Badagry’s quest for greater political recognition gained momentum on Thursday as Lagos governorship hopeful, Samuel Mawuyon...
By Peter Dansu
Badagry’s quest for greater political recognition gained momentum on Thursday as Lagos governorship hopeful, Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA), returned to his roots in Ganho Quarters, Badagry, to engage political stakeholders and pay homage to the paramount ruler of the town, His Majesty, Akran of Badagry, Aholu Menu Toyi I.
The homecoming, which came on the eve of the launch of the SMA Foundation, was more than a ceremonial visit—it became a rallying point for renewed confidence in Badagry’s capacity to produce a governor for Lagos State in 2027.
Leading voices at the event was Hon. Joseph Hontonyon Bamgbose, former Member of the House of Representatives for Badagry Federal Constituency, a two-term Lagos State lawmaker, pioneer chairman of Badagry West LCDA, and apex leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Badagry West.
In his remarks, Bamgbose dismissed insinuations that Badagry lacks the political weight to produce a Lagos governor, describing such claims as both false and offensive.
“Badagry is a town of historic significance to Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. It has produced brilliant minds, tested leaders, and patriotic sons and daughters who have excelled globally. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose is a living proof that Badagry has the human, intellectual, and moral capacity to produce a capable governor for Lagos State,” Bamgbose declared.
Ajose, in his address, echoed Bamgbose’s sentiments, stressing that capacity should not be defined by wealth or academic titles alone. He noted that many Badagry indigenes excelling in diverse fields abroad are willing to contribute meaningfully at home if given the opportunity.
Calling for unity, Ajose urged residents to prioritize voter participation as the foundation of any meaningful political aspiration.
“Our people must understand that no agitation can succeed without the power of the ballot. Collect your voter’s cards, because it is our strongest voice in deciding Lagos’ future,” he said.
At the Akran’s Palace, the governorship hopeful and his entourage were warmly received by members of the royal council. Speaking on behalf of the monarch, High Chief Finheto commended Ajose’s courage and vision, describing him as a “worthy son of Badagry.” He assured him of the king’s prayers and blessings, while emphasizing the need for unity among indigenes.
In a symbolic act of commitment, Ajose announced a ₦20 million donation to support preparations for the Akran’s forthcoming 18th September 2025 birthday celebration, a gesture that further cemented his goodwill with the traditional institution.
From Ganho, Ajose and his team proceeded to Ibereko for the official launch of the SMA Foundation, a platform he said would drive education, healthcare, and economic empowerment across Badagry and Lagos State at large.
With his growing grassroots support, endorsement from key APC leaders, and the blessing of the Akran, Ajose’s ambition to fly the Lagos governorship flag in 2027 is already reshaping the political conversation—not just in Badagry, but across the state.
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