By Osaho Jide
Youths of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo West Local Government staged a protest today to express their dissatisfaction with the imposition of councillorship candidates by party leaders.
The demonstration, which saw hundreds of youths gathering at the Akure Roundabout, underscored the mounting discontent with the party’s leadership in the Local Government.
A representative of the youth, Akinmoladun Felix, voiced his disapproval of the selection process.
He criticized the decision to select a candidate from Ward 5 to represent the people of Ward 8, and another from Ward 2 to represent Ward 1.
Akinmoladun described these decisions as unjust and called for intervention from Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
He emphasized the vital role the youth play in securing the party’s future success.
Additionally, a leader from Ward 1 and councillorship aspirant, Olakunle Olanipekun, alongside other aspirants from the 12 wards of the local council, expressed their disappointment with the party’s leadership.
Olanipekun accused the leaders of engaging in actions that undermine the unity and growth of the party, branding them as “political alligators.”
The aspirants lamented the lack of consultation in the selection process, despite their long-standing contributions to the party’s growth since its inception.
They argued that the imposition of candidates contradicted the principles upheld by the party’s founders.
The twelve aspirants united in their frustration and called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to take action.
They contended that the imposed candidates did not reflect the will of the people and cautioned that such practices could weaken the party’s grassroots support.
“We have built and worked tirelessly for this party. Yet, our leaders impose candidates without consulting the ward representatives. This is a betrayal of trust.”
The protesting youths and aspirants called on the governor to urgently address the issue, stressing that the future of the APC in Ondo West hinges on fair and transparent leadership.
The rally highlights the growing tensions within the APC in Ondo West, as party leaders face increasing pressure from youths and grassroots members to uphold democratic values.