By Dansu Peter As the political tempo begins to rise in anticipation of the 2027 gubernatorial election in Lagos State, an emphatic and hi...
By Dansu Peter
This rallying cry, inspired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s iconic “Emi Lokan” declaration, has taken on new meaning in Badagry Division, the only one of Lagos State's five historical divisions yet to produce a governor in the state's 58-year history. The Concerned People of Badagry, a grassroots political movement, has issued a powerful statement demanding that justice, equity, and historical precedence be respected in 2027.
The Historical Injustice
Since the creation of Lagos State in 1967, political power has rotated among four of its five administrative divisions: Lagos Island, Ikeja, Ikorodu, and Epe. Badagry Division, despite its rich history, loyal political engagement, and strategic importance, has remained conspicuously absent from the list of past governors.
From Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson to incumbent Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, leadership has consistently emerged from the other divisions. Even when Badagry sons and daughters have reached high office, it has been limited to the role of Deputy Governor—never the governorship. Mrs. Sarah Adebisi Sosan and Mrs. Oluranti Adebule, both from the division, served in such capacities between 2007 and 2019.
A Legacy Deserving of Recognition
The statement from the Concerned People of Badagry recalls the city’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s socio-political evolution. Badagry served as an early hub of international trade as far back as 1725, welcomed British colonial administrators in the mid-1800s, and signed treaties with the Queen of England even before much of present-day Nigeria had come into global view.
By 1863, a full year after the cession of Lagos, Badagry had entered into a similar treaty with Britain, cementing its role as a key player in the making of the Nigerian state. The city was subsequently designated as the administrative headquarters of the Badagry Division under Governor Mobolaji Johnson’s 1968 edict, underscoring its prominence in the state's political architecture.
Unwavering Loyalty, Undeserved Neglect
Beyond history, Badagry has proven to be one of Lagos State’s most politically loyal constituencies. According to a recent study referenced by the forum, the division has delivered over 90% of its votes to the ruling party across multiple election cycles—starting with the Alliance for Democracy (AD) in 1998 through to today’s All Progressives Congress (APC).
Yet despite this steadfast support, the division’s political rewards remain meager. The group notes that neighboring Ojo, carved out of Badagry Local Government in 1991, has produced two Deputy Governors, a Secretary to the State Government, a Senator, and even the current APC State Chairman. Badagry, by contrast, has only held the position of Vice Chairman of the party—a role likened to a “spare tyre” in the statement.
A Strategic Call to Mobilization
The Concerned People of Badagry are urging immediate and sustained mobilization. “Political power is not handed over on a platter of gold,” the statement reads. “We must not only convince the powers that be and stakeholders why we deserve it, but also manifest our desire for it.”
The forum is calling for a strategic coalition across all local governments and LCDAs within the Badagry Division to draft a roadmap and assert their rightful place in Lagos' power structure. The group emphasizes that time is of the essence, noting that preparations for the 2027 elections have already quietly begun across party lines.
A Plea to the Conscience of Lagos
The statement closes with a direct appeal to all Lagosians, political stakeholders, and party leadership: to right a historic wrong and support a Badagry indigene to emerge as Governor of Lagos State in 2027.
“It is time to end the long-standing political marginalization of Badagry. It is time for our voices to be heard, our contributions acknowledged, and our people empowered,” the group declared. “Badagry Lokan!”
As 2027 draws closer, the call grows louder. Will Lagos listen?
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