‘Badagry Marginalisation Narrative Misleading, Narrow’, Says Lagos APC Chieftain Oluwa

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State, Wale Oluwa, has faulted what he described as the misrepresentation of the marginalisation debate within Badagry Division of the State, warning that a narrow narrative could distort political realities and sideline key stakeholders.

Speaking with journalists on Monday, Oluwa, who also holds the traditional title of Maiyegun of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, challenged what he called a growing tendency to equate Badagry Division solely with the present Badagry Local Government Area.

“There is a narrow and misleading interpretation of marginalisation within Badagry Division,” he said, cautioning that such framing “risks distorting political realities and sidelining critical stakeholders.”

He stressed that the division is broader and more complex, comprising multiple local government areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), as well as diverse communities united by shared history, culture, and political aspirations.

According to him, the long-standing agitation over marginalisation must be viewed within its full geographical and political context.

“At a time when calls for equity, justice, and fair political compensation are gaining momentum in Lagos State’s evolving power matrix, narrowing the conversation to a single local government is not only misleading but strategically damaging,” Oluwa stated.

The APC stalwart argued that the restricted interpretation of the division could be deliberate and warned of its potential consequences.

“It risks alienating other constituent communities within the division that also possess legitimate claims to inclusion and recognition,” he said, adding that “only a holistic and inclusive framing of Badagry Division can guarantee fairness and credibility in ongoing and future political engagements.”

Oluwa, who was a chairmanship aspirant in Ajeromi-Ifelodun during the last local government elections, urged political actors to avoid sectional narratives capable of breeding distrust and division.

“This is not the time for sectional narratives. What is required is a fact-driven, inclusive approach that reflects the collective identity and interests of the entire division,” he said.

Beyond politics, Oluwa is regarded as a grassroots mobiliser and development advocate, known for community-focused initiatives and humanitarian interventions, which have strengthened his influence across party lines.

He also expressed confidence in the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, describing him as a fair-minded political leader who understands the complexities of Lagos politics.

“Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains a father to all within the party. His leadership is anchored on justice, inclusiveness, and a broad appreciation of political realities. Attempts to distort facts at this critical time will only serve as distractions,” he said.

Oluwa warned that manipulating the marginalisation narrative could undermine party cohesion at a crucial time when unity is needed, especially as political alignments intensify ahead of future elections.

Calling for unity and strategic focus, he urged party members to prioritise collective responsibility and cohesion.

“Our great party requires discipline, unity, and shared purpose at this moment. This is not a season for division, but for consolidation and strategic alignment. We must rise above sectional interests and work together to secure the future of our party and our people,” he added.