A growing political debate has emerged in Badagry Constituency 2 against the representative, Hon. #Setonji David, following a strongly worded public intervention by Prince Samuel Mawutin Ofade, who has called for a change in leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a post titled “Badagry Is Awake – Ayikohon (Ojutila) Part 2”, Prince #Ofade criticised what he described as self-serving politics and a lack of tangible constituency dividends. He argued that longevity in office does not automatically translate into effective representation, insisting that Badagry Constituency 2 deserves visible projects, structured empowerment, and people-centred governance.

Prince Ofade specifically questioned the continued re-election bids of the current Assembly member, suggesting that repeated terms without what he considers commensurate impact undermine public trust. He contrasted this with examples from other constituencies, citing first-time legislators such as Hon. Abiodun Orekoya (Shomolu I) and Hon. Bonu Solomon (Badagry Constituency I), whom he praised for grassroots engagement, motions in the House, and empowerment initiatives.

He also dismissed ongoing political narratives around a potential future Speakership of the Lagos State House of Assembly, describing such claims as misleading and insufficient justification for extended tenure. Calling on constituents to “reject politics of bitterness and demand accountability”, he urged voters to consider fresh leadership with vision and integrity.

In the same post, Prince Ofade acknowledged receiving festive goodwill gestures from several political figures during the Christmas and New Year period, stating that the support reflected appreciation for his political relevance rather than partisan alignment.

Counter-Reaction: Questions Over Motive and Consistency

Prince Ofade’s remarks prompted a detailed response from Senami Hungbeji, who challenged both the substance and motivation behind the critique.

In his reaction, Hungbeji argued that Badagry voters are capable of distinguishing between principled advocacy and personal grievance framed as activism. He questioned the timing of Prince Ofade’s criticism, noting that the same political leadership now being challenged had previously enjoyed his public support.

According to Hungbeji, political accountability must be rooted in consistency. He argued that condemning empowerment politics while simultaneously acknowledging receipt of cash and material gifts from other politicians weakens the moral basis of the argument.

He further cautioned against reducing legislative performance to visual comparisons of empowerment items, stressing that governance outcomes are shaped by institutional factors such as seniority, committee influence, party structure, and negotiation power within the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Hungbeji defended the value of experience, stating that long-term representation can strengthen a constituency’s influence in a system where seniority plays a significant role in lawmaking and resource allocation. He also dismissed suggestions that leadership positions in the Assembly are secured through public rhetoric, describing them instead as outcomes of internal party dynamics and strategic alignment.

A Broader Political Moment

The exchange highlights a broader conversation unfolding in Badagry ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle — one centred on performance versus experience, continuity versus renewal, and the evolving expectations of political representation at the constituency level.

While Prince Ofade frames his intervention as a civic awakening and a call for reform, his critics view it as a reaction shaped by personal political realignment. Both perspectives underscore a shared recognition that Badagry’s political future remains a subject of active public engagement.

As debates intensify, observers note that the ultimate decision will rest with voters, who will weigh competing narratives, records, and visions for Badagry Constituency 2.