By Esther Onyegbula

The Supervisor for Market and Park Matters in Badagry West Local Council Development Area, Hon Prince Sunday Oke, has said that the growing political relevance of Badagry in Lagos State reflects the vision and legacy of the late Dr Akinsanya Sunny Ajose OON JP, whom he described as a selfless leader committed to the development of the ancient town.

Oke, in a statement titled “The Badagry Sunny Ajose Envisaged: A Bright Future for Badagry,” said the late political leader dedicated his life to laying the foundation for the progress and advancement of Badagry, noting that the town is now reaping the benefits of his foresight and mentorship.

According to him, Badagry, which was once associated with developmental challenges and nicknamed “Bad Agreement,” has witnessed remarkable progress in recent years, driven by leaders and political actors nurtured under Ajose’s leadership.
He attributed the town’s growing political profile to the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the All Progressives Congress, APC, leadership in Lagos State.

“Thanks to the goodwill of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, who chose one of Dr Akinsanya Sunny Ajose’s political mentees as the Deputy Governorship candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Badagry has achieved its highest position yet,” Oke said.
He also pointed to the emergence of Hon Olusegun Teliat Onilude as the APC candidate for Badagry Federal Constituency, Hon Gbenu Joseph for Badagry Constituency I and Hon Oladunjoye Olatunde for Badagry Constituency II as further evidence of the town’s growing political influence.

The council official said the late Ajose remained passionate about youth development and succession planning throughout his political career, adding that many of his protégés continue to play significant roles in public service and politics.
“As someone who was closely mentored by Dr Akinsanya Sunny Ajose, I can attest to his unwavering passion for seeing the youth of Badagry rise above their predecessors,” he stated.
Oke noted that the involvement of Dr Samuel Mawuyon Ajose in public affairs demonstrates that the late statesman’s ideals are being sustained, describing him as “a strong voice for the town.”

He, however, stressed the importance of party discipline and consultation with the leadership of the APC in Badagry, saying such principles were central to the political philosophy of the late Ajose.
“However, it’s important for him to remember to seek advice and opinions from the party leadership in Badagry, as the party’s decision is always supreme,” Oke said.

“This was a core principle that Dr Akinsanya Sunny Ajose instilled in all of his mentees, to remain loyal to the party and its symbol, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.”
The Badagry West LCDA official expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and members of the Governance Advisory Council, GAC, for what he described as their recognition of Badagry Federation and its developmental potential.

He said the support of the state and national leadership, combined with the enduring legacy of Dr Ajose, has positioned Badagry for greater growth and prosperity.
“The people of Badagry are eternally grateful to President Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the entire GAC for recognizing Badagry Federation and its potential,” he said.

Oke added that the transformation envisioned by the late political leader is gradually becoming a reality, insisting that Badagry is increasingly being recognised as a hub of progress and development.
“The Badagry that Dr Sunny Ajose envisaged is becoming a reality, and we owe it all to his dedication and visionary leadership,” he added.