Aggrieved youths of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area (LCDA) have called on the Lagos State APC leadership to urgently address what they describe as systemic marginalisation and exclusion from political opportunities in the area.
In a strongly worded statement titled “Save Our Soul: APC Youths Lament Igando-Ikotun Marginalisation,” the youths accused the current political leadership of recycling the same set of individuals in key positions over the years, without giving young and loyal party members a chance to grow or serve.
“What is the offense of APC youths in the Igando-Ikotun political setup?” the statement asked. “Despite our loyalty, commitment, and energy invested in the party, we continue to be sidelined in favour of the same old faces.”
The statement noted that during the recently concluded local government elections, several chairmanship aspirants—including those who also contested in 2021—were again denied consideration for any meaningful positions, while older politicians retained their grip on power. They expressed disappointment that individuals who have served continuously in different roles for over a decade were once again rewarded, leaving no room for emerging leaders.
According to the youths, the current leadership has failed to create space for innovation, growth, and generational inclusion. They argued that the race for Secretary to the Local Government (SLG) presents an opportunity to correct the imbalance by considering vibrant young aspirants, particularly those who have demonstrated their commitment by contesting and campaigning for the party.
“The political process has become a closed circle. The same leaders who served under past administrations continue to hold sway, while capable youths are pushed aside,” the statement read. “This trend is not only unfair but dangerous for the future of the APC in our LCDA.”
They stressed the need for fairness and unity within the party, warning that continued exclusion could breed resentment and political apathy among the younger generation.
“Our so-called leaders are promoting division, fighting for personal gain instead of building harmony within the party. Their selfishness is making many of us lose faith in the APC project in Igando-Ikotun,” they said.
The youths called on party stakeholders across Lagos to intervene and ensure that loyalty, merit, and dedication—not age or personal connections—become the criteria for appointments and representation.
“We urge the leadership to rebalance the equation and correct this injustice before it destroys our collective future. The youth are the future of our party and must be carried along,” the statement concluded. “Loyalty should be appreciated, not ignored. Self-interest must be discarded, and the political aspirations of young APC chairmanship hopefuls must be given top priority.”
As of the time of filing this report, APC leaders in Igando-Ikotun have not responded to the issues raised.
