Our Aholus Need Good Roads, Not Luxury Cars By Hunpatin Paul

In recent days, the distribution of luxury cars to traditional rulers in Badagry Local Government by the council chairman, Hon. Onilude Segu...

In recent days, the distribution of luxury cars to traditional rulers in Badagry Local Government by the council chairman, Hon. Onilude Segun Adeniran, has sparked significant public discourse. While recognizing the symbolic importance of traditional rulers in our cultural and administrative structures, it is pertinent to critically assess the priorities of our government against the pressing needs of the people.

Badagry is a historic town, revered for its cultural heritage and contributions to the nation's history. However, the state of infrastructure in many of its communities tells a woeful story of neglect and misplaced priorities.

Roads leading to towns and villages under the jurisdiction of these same Aholus—our esteemed traditional rulers—are in deplorable states.

Take, for instance, the Iyaafin Road, which has been abandoned for over a decade, becoming nothing short of a death trap. Similarly, Ikoga Road has been impassable for just as long, leaving residents and commuters stranded, frustrated, and sometimes endangered. These roads are not mere pathways; they are lifelines for economic activities, access to healthcare, and the overall well-being of the people.

It is deeply ironic that while our kings are being presented with luxury cars, these very vehicles cannot ply the roads leading to their communities. What good is a state-of-the-art car if the roads are riddled with potholes, flooded during rains, and perpetually inaccessible? The gesture of gifting luxury cars, although well-meaning in its intent to honor the Aholus, falls flat in the face of the stark realities confronting Badagry residents daily.

This glaring disconnect highlights a troubling trend of misplaced governmental priorities. The fundamental role of any government—be it at the local, state, or federal level—is to address the core needs of its people. Infrastructure, particularly roads, is one of those needs. Badagry Local Government and the Lagos State Government must step up and fulfill their obligations to rehabilitate and maintain these critical roads.

Honoring our traditional rulers is important, but true honor comes from ensuring that they preside over communities that thrive, not suffer. Instead of luxury cars, why not invest in grading, repairing, and reconstructing the roads leading to these communities? Why not channel funds into projects that enhance the lives of the people, reduce hardship, and elevate the status of our localities?

Badagry is a tourism hub with immense potential to drive revenue and development. However, no tourist or investor will be drawn to a place where the roads are impassable and basic amenities are lacking. The current state of our infrastructure is not just a stain on our reputation but also a direct impediment to progress.

As citizens of Badagry, we must hold our leaders accountable. Governance is not about grand gestures but meaningful, impactful actions that address the genuine needs of the populace. The neglect of roads like Iyaafin and Ikoga, among others, must be addressed urgently.

To the Aholus, the true kings of our heritage, we say: your people do not need flashy cars; they need access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and most importantly, good roads. Let us all call on Hon. Onilude Segun Adeniran and other stakeholders to prioritize the needs of the people over symbolic gestures. Only then can we build a Badagry that honors both its past and its future.

Hunpatin Paul Gbodogbe writes from, Tako, Ajara, Badagry.