By Peter Dansu A thought provoking message shared on Facebook by Pastor Senami Hungbeji has sparked deep reflection across Badagry’s politi...
By Peter Dansu
A thought provoking message shared on Facebook by Pastor Senami Hungbeji has sparked deep reflection across Badagry’s political space, as the cleric openly challenged elected representatives to rethink their approach to leadership, governance, and public service ahead of 2026.
In a strongly worded but measured intervention addressed to all elected officials representing Badagry, Pastor Hungbeji argued that politics in the ancient town must evolve with the times, warning that recycling old leadership habits under new slogans has continued to rob governance of real impact.
According to him, leadership is not about repetition of familiar patterns while expecting different outcomes, a practice he described as unrealistic and largely responsible for the growing disconnect many citizens feel from government. He stressed that the message was not borne out of malice, but out of civic responsibility, insisting that true leadership sometimes requires being called out by voices willing to say what others avoid.
Addressing Hon. Setonji David, the long serving member representing Badagry Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Pastor Hungbeji noted that longevity in office should naturally translate into deeper and broader impact. While acknowledging that the lawmaker has made contributions over the years, he urged him to move away from selective leadership and embrace inclusive empowerment. He reminded him that leadership is defined not by closeness to a few but by responsibility to all, adding that social media applause fades quickly, while genuine impact endures in the hearts of the people.
Turning to Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Kayode, Executive Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, the cleric observed that although the chairman is still early in his administration, concerns about selectiveness are already emerging. He cautioned that the conduct of those surrounding a leader often shapes public perception more than the leader’s intentions. He advised the chairman to resist turning governance into a media driven project, urging him to work quietly and allow results to speak, noting that excessive image projection by aides could unintentionally damage the credibility of the administration.
For Hon. Solomon Stand Bonu, the newly elected representative of Badagry Constituency I, Pastor Hungbeji struck a more optimistic tone, describing his newness in office as an advantage. He praised the lawmaker’s passion for education and youth development, arguing that deliberate investment in knowledge has the power to solve multiple societal problems at once. He encouraged sustained focus on education and advised him to manage accessibility carefully, noting that value often increases with restraint.
The message also addressed Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, Executive Chairman of Olorunda LCDA, with a caution against mistaking ceremonies for substance. Pastor Hungbeji warned that celebrating milestones such as 100 days in office should never overshadow the real work of governance. He stressed that leadership is about touching lives deeply, not impressing superiors or managing people through symbols, urging the chairman to prioritise listening and genuine service over appearances.
In his remarks to Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Pastor Hungbeji acknowledged his passion and energy but warned that speed without restraint could be misleading. He cautioned against excessive publicity, describing governance as neither a picture gallery nor a media show, and advised the chairman to reduce noise, work more in silence, and allow tangible outcomes to define his tenure.
Perhaps the most pointed section of the message was directed at Hon. Sesi Whingan, Member of the Federal House of Representatives. Pastor Hungbeji cautioned that the aggressive online conduct of some aides, allegedly aimed at securing a second term, may be doing more harm than good. He warned against insults and intimidation of critics, urging the lawmaker to call his aides to order and return leadership to a people centred focus rather than personality driven politics. He also reminded him of his earlier strong connection with the people through his foundation, advising him not to abandon that bridge. While commending initiatives such as providing buses for students, he stressed that many students still lack basic learning tools, urging deeper listening and more practical interventions.
Concluding his message, Pastor Hungbeji challenged all leaders in Badagry to demonstrate a different style of leadership as 2026 approaches. He emphasised that leadership is not about visibility, coercion, or performance, but about service, restraint, listening, and lasting impact. He warned that social media hype, power, and titles all fade with time, but the memory of how leaders made people feel and how they improved lives remains.
His message has since drawn widespread attention, igniting conversations among residents and political observers, many of whom see it as a rare and courageous call for introspection in Badagry’s leadership culture.
No comments