” Badagry Women Demand Governorship Slot in Lagos, Call for Equity and Inclusion

 

By oluwaseyi fadoro 

Women from the Badagry Federation in Lagos State have called for equity, justice, and greater political inclusion, urging that the state’s governorship seat be zoned to their region in future elections.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the group—comprising community leaders, market women, and key stakeholders—presented their demand as a principled appeal rooted in fairness and democratic values rather than protest.

“Today, we rise—not in anger but in conviction; not in protest but in purpose,” the women declared in a jointly delivered statement, emphasizing their roles as mothers, community builders, and custodians of societal values.

They argued that their call reflects the aspirations of both present and future generations, while questioning the long-standing political structure in Lagos State. According to the group, since the state’s creation in 1967, Badagry Federation has yet to produce a governor.

“Can Lagos truly claim fairness if one part of it is continuously left behind?” they asked.

Highlighting Badagry’s strategic importance, the women described the region as a vital gateway to West Africa, with significant potential in tourism, agriculture, and trade. They stressed that despite its contributions, the area has remained politically marginalized.

The group directed its appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging them to uphold principles of fairness and justice in future political arrangements.

They also pointed to Badagry’s history of political loyalty and grassroots mobilization, noting that the region has consistently supported party activities and electoral success.

“When leadership needed mobilisation, Badagry showed up,” the statement read.

In addition, the women raised concerns about what they described as “political identity of convenience,” criticizing individuals who allegedly claim Badagry roots for political gain without genuine ties to the community.

“Badagry cannot continue to be used as a political identity of convenience while true sons and daughters of the land are sidelined,” they said.

While emphasizing that their demand is not centered on individuals, the group cited Samuel Mawuyon Ajose as an example of credible leadership, praising his contributions to grassroots mobilization and party development across Lagos and the South-West.

“As women, we look beyond titles—we look at character, capacity, and consistency,” they added.

The press conference concluded with a unified demand for the governorship seat to be zoned to Badagry Federation, under the slogan “Badagry Lokan” (It is Badagry’s turn).

The women urged political leaders and stakeholders to view their call not as a regional agitation, but as a necessary step toward strengthening equity, inclusion, and unity in Lagos State’s political landscape.