IKOLE YOUTHS RISE AGAINST INTIMIDATION, DEMAND JUSTICE AND FAIR REPRESENTATION
The Coordinating Youth President of Ikole Local Government Area, Comrade Alonge Kehinde Julius, has openly criticized the recent arrest of several youths within the council, describing the action as unacceptable and undemocratic.
Speaking from his residence in Odooro Ekiti during an interaction with journalists, Comrade Alonge expressed deep concern over what he termed an unjust clampdown on young people who were only standing up for their rights. According to him, the detained individuals were apprehended in Odooro Ekiti and Oke Ijebu Agege after opposing what they perceived as an attempt to impose a preferred senatorial aspirant on Ward 3.
Representing the collective voice of youth leaders across 25 communities in Ikole, Alonge maintained that such actions threaten the foundation of democracy and silence the legitimate expression of the people’s will. He insisted that every citizen has the constitutional freedom to make political choices without fear, pressure, or interference.
He further stated that Ikole youths remain committed to maintaining peace and order, but will not fold their arms in the face of injustice or systemic suppression. He stressed that respect for the people’s decision must remain the guiding principle in any democratic setting.
The growing tension, he noted, is tied to longstanding concerns over political imbalance within the Ekiti North Senatorial District.
Despite comprising five local government areas, Ikole has yet to produce a senator since the return to democratic governance in 1999, a reality that continues to generate dissatisfaction among its people.
Comrade Alonge therefore appealed directly to the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, urging swift intervention to secure the release of those currently in custody. He emphasized that the detained youths acted within their rights and should not be subjected to intimidation or harassment.
He concluded by reaffirming the resolve of Ikole youths to stand firmly for equity, justice, and inclusive representation, noting that the voice of the people must never be ignored.
Signed: the
Isa Pol consultancy information and communication firm
