Youths in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State have openly backed Otunba Dare Owolabi as their preferred candidate for the Ekiti North senatorial seat, urging leaders of the All Progressives Congress to heed the growing demand from grassroots communities across the district.
Speaking under the banner of Ikole Local Government Youth United Front, the group said residents across Ekiti North now seek representation that reflects the realities and aspirations of the people.
In a statement released on Sunday, the youths said the district deserves a senator who understands local challenges and can effectively represent the people at the national level.
The group stressed that political leadership remains a trust given by citizens, adding that the people reserve the right to demand change when they no longer feel the impact of such leadership.
“We are appealing to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress in Ekiti State to carefully listen to the voice of the grassroots,” the statement said.
The youths specifically called on Governor Biodun Oyebanji and other senior party figures to consider the growing sentiment in Ekiti North as consultations on the district’s senatorial future continue.
According to the group, Ikole Local Government has credible individuals capable of representing the district effectively, mentioning Otunba Dare Owolabi and Engineer Dipo Bamisaye as respected figures with the experience and exposure to serve.
However, the youths said grassroots support appears to tilt strongly towards Mr Owolabi, citing his long-standing engagement with community members and support for vulnerable groups.
They described him as a leader whose relationship with young people, the elderly and the less privileged has earned him broad acceptance across communities in the district.
The group added that many youths view Mr Owolabi as someone who understands the struggles of ordinary citizens and who can amplify the district’s voice at the national assembly.
While acknowledging the contributions of other political figures in the area, the youths urged party leaders to give serious consideration to Ikole Local Government in determining the party’s eventual candidate.
They also noted that the next senator from the district must not only represent Ekiti North effectively but must also support the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The youths said they remain committed to unity and development in the district and expressed confidence that party leaders will consider the position of the grassroots as consultations continue.
