A coalition of youths in Akoko North West Constituency II, Ondo State, has rejected claims of a political rotation arrangement in the area, distancing itself from a group advocating its enforcement.
The youths, drawn from communities including Ogbagi, Irun, Ese and Afin, said they were neither consulted nor informed before the release of a statement urging adherence to a purported zoning agreement in the constituency.
In a rebuttal made available to journalists, and signed by the President, Oluwatuyi Aderemi (HOFAD), Gen Secretary, Mayowa Olumide, and PRO, Adeolola Oluwafemi, by the group described those behind the earlier statement as “self-appointed actors” who do not represent the collective interests of young people in the constituency.
According to the youths, the position canvassed in the statement does not reflect the aspirations of the wider youth population, alleging that it appeared to be driven by a narrow agenda.
They further claimed that credible youth leaders involved in community development, entrepreneurship, education and grassroots mobilisation were excluded from any form of consultation before the statement was issued.
On the issue of zoning, the group acknowledged the importance of fairness and inclusiveness but cautioned against allowing rotational arrangements to override merit, competence and the democratic choice of the electorate.
They warned that strict adherence to such an arrangement could hinder effective leadership and limit the constituency’s access to capable representation.
The youths also dismissed suggestions that political parties risk electoral defeat if they deviate from zoning, describing such claims as unfounded and defeatist.
They maintained that electoral success is largely determined by the credibility and capacity of candidates to address critical issues such as infrastructure, youth empowerment, agriculture, education and security.
Highlighting their concerns, the group called for improved access to quality education, expanded opportunities for skills acquisition, job creation, support for modern farming practices and better healthcare services.
They also stressed the need to curb political violence and promote development-focused leadership.
The coalition urged the Ondo State Government and relevant political stakeholders to disregard the earlier statement and instead engage directly with genuine representatives of the people across the constituency.
Reaffirming their position, the youths called for a political process anchored on merit, inclusiveness and transparency, insisting that the future of Akoko North West Constituency II must be determined through a free and democratic process.
