A renewed agitation for political inclusion has emerged from Badagry Division, as elder statesman Pa Andu Liadi Adio calls on Bola Ahmed Tinubu to honour a long-standing commitment that the area should produce a Governor of Lagos State.
Speaking at his Badagry residence, the 93-year-old community leader appealed for patience among youths championing the cause, assuring them that their demand for equity would eventually receive due consideration.
Adio expressed confidence that the President would not ignore the aspirations of Badagry people, who are seeking the opportunity to occupy the state’s highest office for the first time.
According to him, the moment presents a fitting opportunity to correct what he described as years of political neglect.
Reflecting on past political developments, he recalled that during his tenure as governor, Tinubu had requested a nominee from Badagry to join his administration, a move that led to the emergence of Olanrewaju Saka-Shenayon as Commissioner for Rural Development and Infrastructure.
He stressed that the 1999 appointment effectively dispelled claims that Badagry lacks capable individuals for leadership positions.
Adding to the conversation, former commissioner Hon. Olanrewaju Saka-Shenayon dismissed concerns about the private sector background of Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, noting that his experience remains a strong asset.
He described Ajose, widely known as “SMA Gold,” as a major contributor to socio-economic progress in Lagos West and a committed supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In the same vein, former House of Representatives member Hon. Rafeequat Arinola Onabamiro endorsed Ajose’s ambition, citing his extensive professional experience spanning over 30 years as a solid foundation for governance.
She further pointed out that notable former governors such as Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Babatunde Fashola, and Akinwunmi Ambode rose to prominence outside traditional political pathways yet delivered impactful leadership.
Onabamiro, however, expressed concern over Badagry’s historical exclusion, noting that since Lagos State’s creation in 1967, the division has not produced a Military Governor, Deputy Governor, Minister, or Secretary to the State Government.
She concluded that stakeholders across Lagos West Senatorial District are aligned in their support for Dr. Ajose as a credible contender for the 2027 governorship race, describing his candidacy as a step toward achieving long-overdue balance in the state’s political structure.
