Lagos West APC youths back Badagry governorship bid
Youth leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos West Senatorial District have supported the growing agitation for the emergence of a governor from Badagry Division in the next electoral
- By Raymond Mordi, Deputy Political Editor
Youth leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos West Senatorial District have supported the growing agitation for the emergence of a governor from Badagry Division in the next electoral cycle, declaring: “It is Badagry or nothing.”
The group, under the aegis of Lagos West APC Youth, made its position known yesterday during a news conference addressed by its convener, Prince Seyon Akran.
The youth said their stance aligned with the earlier position of traditional rulers in the division, describing the demand as a matter of equity, justice and inclusion.
Addressing reporters, Akran said the call for zoning APC governorship ticket to Badagry—popularly described as “Badagry Lokan”—represented a historic turning point for the division, which he noted had never produced a governor since the creation of Lagos State in 1967.
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“This is not an accusation. It is a fact,” he said. “As stakeholders in Lagos State, we affirm that our demand is legitimate, just and fair—devoid of offence to God and man.”
The youth group stressed that Badagry had remained a loyal and consistent supporter of the progressive movement and APC, contributing to electoral victory and governance support over the years.
“From elections to governance support, Badagry has consistently stood with the progressive family. We have shown loyalty. We have delivered. We have remained committed,” Akran said.
The youth also highlighted the need to ensure young people in the division were not excluded from political opportunities, warning that continued marginalisation could hinder development and representation.
“We speak as leaders of tomorrow. The system must not be at the disadvantage of Badagry youths. We deserve inclusion, opportunity and representation,” the group said, adding that the division is in need of infrastructure development and economic advancement.
Rejecting claims that Badagry lacks the capacity to produce a capable governor, the youths argue that the division is home to competent, experienced individuals, who can lead Lagos effectively.
“Badagry is blessed with men and women of character, integrity, education and exposure. Badagry is not lacking. Badagry is ready,” Akran said.
They further underscored Badagry’s strategic importance to Lagos State’s future, describing it as a gateway to West Africa with immense tourism potential, vast agricultural resources and opportunities for regional trade and economic expansion.
The group singled out Mr Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA), a chieftain of APC from Badagry, as a potential candidate, citing his track record of service, grassroots mobilisation and investment in party structures.
According to the youth, Ajose has contributed to strengthening APC across Lagos State, including providing logistical support for elections in all 57 local government areas, mobilising support for progressive leadership and promoting Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“These are not theoretical credentials. These are real actions under real conditions,” Akran said. “At a time when the question is not just who should lead, but who is prepared to lead, SMA stands out.”
The group maintained that Badagry possessed capable indigenes and did not need to look beyond its borders for leadership.
Reaffirming their loyalty to APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the youth described their demand not as divisive, but as a call for fairness and inclusion within the party.
“This is not a division. This is justice. Badagry has waited. Badagry has contributed. Badagry has delivered. Badagry is ready,” the statement said.
The news conference adds to the growing momentum within political circles in Lagos over zoning arrangements ahead of the next governorship election, with stakeholders calling for a shift in power to underrepresented areas of the state.
