Ogun 2027: Youths demand inclusive governance, reject thuggery

Youths under the aegis of the City Boy Movement in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State have strongly advocated for inclusive governance and equitable distribution of the dividends of democracy at the grassroots, while rejecting political violence and thuggery.

The call, according to a statement on Friday, was made during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Imeko-Afon.

Participants at the meeting deliberated on the urgent need for greater youth participation in governance and community development.

In his contributions, the Coordinator of the group in the local government, Jamiu Ogundele, popularly known as JAMSALOD, said sustainable development could only be achieved when governance is inclusive and impactful at the grassroots.

Ogundele said, “For robust national development, youths must be carried along in governance, and the dividends of democracy must be felt at the grassroots.

“Youths must take more than a passing interest in politics. We must deepen our democratic process by scaling up our committed participation.

“As the 2027 election activities gather momentum, we must prioritise peaceful engagement and distance ourselves from thuggery and any form of political violence that can derail our collective progress.”

He urged young people to take up leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to nation-building through constructive engagement and peaceful political participation.

In his remarks, the Ogun West Coordinator of the group, Ayodeji Idowu, called on youths to unite and play active roles in strengthening democratic institutions.

“Young people must see themselves as agents of change and development. The future of our communities depends on our willingness to promote peace, inclusiveness, and responsible leadership,” he said.

Also speaking, the group’s Secretary in Imeko-Afon Local Government, Hon. Nafiu Abibola, and the South-West President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Comrade Kehinde Olurunjubelo, urged youths to embrace their responsibilities as nation-builders and shun all forms of political thuggery and manipulation.

The stakeholders commended the founder of the movement, Seyi Tinubu, for initiating the platform, describing it as a step towards youth mobilisation and political enlightenment.

They also lauded the Ogun State Government under Governor Dapo Abiodun and the All Progressives Congress (APC) for endorsing Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, representing Ogun West Senatorial District, as the party’s governorship candidate for the 2027 general election.

The youths pledged to mobilise support for President Bola Tinubu, the APC governorship candidate in Ogun State, and other party candidates ahead of the polls.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by participants to promote inclusive governance, grassroots development, and peaceful political engagement across the state