The political landscape of Lagos State shifted gears today as a powerful coalition of Lagos West APC Youths, held a massive press conference, formally demanding that the 2027 governorship seat be zoned to their region.
Chanting the slogan “Badagry Lokan” (It is Badagry’s turn), the group, led by Prince Seyon Adeyemi Akran, Convener of the Lagos West APC Youth, declared that after nearly 60 years of the state’s existence, the division has been systematically overlooked for the top job.
A Historical Debt and a “Legitimate Demand”
Addressing a packed hall of royal fathers, political leaders, and media personnel, the youth leaders pointed out a stark historical fact: since the creation of Lagos State in 1967, through both military and civilian rules, no indigene of the Badagry Federation has ever served as Governor.
”This is not an accusation; it is a fact,” the group stated. “In the spirit of equity, fairness, and unity, Badagry deserves its rightful place. We are not on the sidelines; we are contributors, participants, and stakeholders who have consistently delivered for the progressive movement.”
The Case for Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA)
While the call for zoning was the primary focus, the youths were quick to present a “battle-ready” candidate. They threw their weight behind Mr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA), describing him as a son of the soil who has proven his mettle through personal sacrifice and grassroots mobilization.
The coalition highlighted Ajose’s track record, noting his:
- Infrastructure Support: Investing personal resources to strengthen APC structures across all 57 LGAs/LCDAs.
- Electoral Mobilization: Coordinating logistics and thousands of supporters across the South-West for the “Renewed Hope” agenda.
- Proven Capacity: Demonstrating leadership under “real conditions” rather than just theoretical credentials.
Strategic Importance: More Than Just Tourism
The youths rejected the narrative that the region lacks the capacity to lead a mega-city like Lagos. They argued that Badagry is the “Gateway to West Africa,” boasting untapped tourism potential, vast agricultural lands, and a strategic position for regional trade that could revolutionize the state’s economy.
The Power of the Youth Vote
A significant highlight of the briefing came during the media Q&A, where Adewale Talabi emphasized the demographic strength of the movement.
“We have over 82 percent of youths in the Badagry division registered with their PVCs,” Talabi noted, sending a clear message to party stakeholders that the region’s voting bloc is both organized and ready to act.
The Verdict
The press conference concluded with a reaffirmation of loyalty to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC, promising a 95% vote delivery in future elections—provided the party heeds the call for inclusion.
”This is not division; it is justice,” the group concluded. “Badagry has waited. Badagry has delivered. Badagry is ready.”
