By ADERONKE OJEDIRAN /RASQAK RAJI

Traditional rulers in Badagry Division have called for the Lagos State governorship seat to be zoned to the area in 2027, citing justice, equity, and fairness.

The traditional rulers, led by Aholu Olalekan Sejiro, the Aholu of Kweme Kingdom, made the call on Monday during a media briefing in Badagry, also declaring support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

Oba Sejiro said the briefing aimed to address a “longstanding imbalance in Lagos State’s political leadership structure”.

“Inspite of its contributions to Lagos and Nigeria’s growth, Badagry Division is the only traditional division in the state that hasn’t produced a governor since Lagos State was created in 1967.

“Today is not just about politics; it is a defining moment in the history of our people and our state.

“It is a moment to speak with one voice in the interest of justice, fairness and balanced representation in the political future of Lagos State,” he said.

The traditional ruler described Badagry as a historic gateway that connects Nigeria to the West African sub-region and the wider world, through trade, diplomacy, and culture, long before modern political structures emerged.

According to him, Badagry remains strategically important to Lagos due to its border position with the Republic of Benin, its role within the ECOWAS corridor, and its huge potential in logistics, tourism and regional economic integration.

“Badagry is rich in history, strategic in location and enormous in economic potential.

“Our contribution to the growth of Lagos State is undeniable, and our relevance to the future of the state remains critical.

“Since the creation of Lagos State in 1967, Badagry Division has never produced a governor, not one.

“This is why we have gathered today, not in protest, but in purpose; not in division, but in unity and good faith, to make a legitimate and just appeal,” he said.

The traditional ruler also praised President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, listing initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, economic reforms, increased oil production, improved government revenue, infrastructure development as well as interventions in healthcare and agriculture

He said the administration’s flagship projects, including the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, reflected the President’s commitment to national development and connectivity. (NAN)