…Mega 99 Thrills Crowd, Endorses “SMA Gold”
The landscape of Lagos politics shifted significantly on Wednesday as Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, popularly known as “SMA Gold,” officially declared his intention to run for the Governor of Lagos State in 2027.
Addressing a massive crowd of All Progressives Congress (APC) faithful at the Police College Field in Ikeja, Ajose framed his candidacy as a blend of “fresh blood” and “progressive continuity,” while simultaneously launching a nationwide mobilization movement for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term.
A Vision for “Renewed Hope 2.0”
Standing before party leaders and vibrant youth groups, Dr. Ajose pledged to build upon the foundation laid by President Tinubu and subsequent administrations. His “SMA Agenda” is anchored on four cardinal pillars designed to modernize the city-state:
- Housing: Ambitious public-private partnerships to foster mass homeownership.
- Transportation: A fully integrated multi-modal network linking rail, road, and water to end the city’s legendary gridlock.
- Education: A heavy focus on vocational skills and girl-child education to power the future economy.
- Health: Achieving universal healthcare coverage through strengthened primary health centers.
”I represent the continuity of our cherished progressive legacy, but with a fresh perspective,” Ajose declared. “Our mission is clear: to lift at least 2 million Lagosians out of poverty within my first four years.”
The “Badagry Turn” and Grassroots Mobilization
The declaration also served as the official activation of the SMA Movement across all 376 wards and 57 LGAs/LCDAs in Lagos. Director-General of the movement, Biodun Coker (FCCA), emphasized that the 2027 cycle would see no room for the “complacency” that affected the party’s 2023 performance in the state.
Addressing the historical context of his candidacy, Ajose noted that it is time for the Badagry division to contribute its resources and leadership to the center of excellence. “It is time for Badagry to be onboard, not because we were marginalized, but because we have the opportunity and resources to benefit the entire state,” he said.
Stakes for 2027: The 3 Million Vote Mandate
Central to the event was the “Renewed Hope 2.0” campaign for President Tinubu. Speakers at the rally pointed to the President’s “courageous” economic reforms—specifically the removal of fuel subsidies and the boost to local refining—as the roadmap for Nigeria’s resilience.
Ajose urged the youth to move beyond social media complaints and take ownership of the democratic process. “Your vote is your power. Start the process now—register and revalidate your PVCs so you can vote for the party that delivers,” he urged.
Mega 99 Thrills Crowd, Endorses “SMA Gold”
The atmosphere at the Police College was electrified by the performance of legendary juju musician Abel Dosunmu, popularly known as Mega 99.
A long-time associate of the aspirant, Mega 99 expressed his excitement at the scale of the mobilization. “SMA Gold is a true fan and a brother; I performed at his father’s funeral, and I know his heart,” the musician shared.
Mega 99 threw his full weight behind the movement’s dual goals, stating, “I am happy to see a platform like this. He has promised to deliver 3 million votes for Asiwaju [Tinubu] in Lagos, and I am here to help him campaign and reach the people through music. It is time to mobilize so that Lagos remains the stronghold of the APC.”
