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Massive Turnout in Abeokuta as Ogun Youths Rally in Prayer for Yayi’s 2027 Race
Joel Ajayi
Abeokuta witnessed an unprecedented surge of energy and solidarity as thousands of youths converged for a special prayer gathering in support of the 2027 governorship ambition of Adeola Olamilekan Yayi.
The event, organised by the Yayi Youth Vanguard, transformed the Panseke skating ground into a carnival-like arena, with over 5,000 participants drawn from across the 20 local government areas of Ogun State. Clad in white face caps boldly inscribed “Ogun Youths For Yayi,” the crowd demonstrated both political enthusiasm and spiritual unity.
Senator Yayi, who represents Ogun West Senatorial District and currently chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee, is widely speculated to be eyeing the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
Addressing the gathering, the Ogun State Coordinator of the group, Comrade Olamide Lawal, stressed the urgent need for greater youth inclusion in Nigeria’s political process.
Speaking on the theme, “Consolidating a Brighter Future for Ogun Youth Inclusiveness in Politics and Governance,” Lawal described young people as critical stakeholders whose active participation is essential for sustainable development and democratic growth.
He noted that despite constituting a large percentage of the electorate, Nigerian youths remain underrepresented in leadership and decision-making roles.
“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are active participants in today’s governance,” Lawal said. “Political institutions must create more opportunities for youth engagement—not only as voters but as candidates, policymakers, and leaders.”
Highlighting the significance of the current religious season, he explained that the prayer session was deliberately timed to coincide with Ramadan and Lent, bringing together Islamic clerics and Christian pastors to seek divine guidance for the movement and the state.
Lawal further urged young Nigerians to abandon political apathy, warning that disengagement would only limit their ability to influence governance and benefit from democratic dividends.
“If you are not involved, you cannot demand accountability or expect inclusion,” he added, encouraging youths to actively participate in shaping their communities and political future.
He also called for structural reforms within political parties, including reduced nomination fees and expanded access to leadership positions, to eliminate barriers that discourage youth participation. According to him, mentorship from established leaders is key to bridging the generational divide and fostering innovation in governance.
Also lending his voice, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, represented by his aide Abiola Odetola, advocated for policies that institutionalise youth inclusion, such as quota systems in elective and appointive offices.
He expressed optimism that sustained advocacy would usher in a new era of youth-driven leadership capable of addressing pressing national challenges, including unemployment, education reform, and technological advancement.
In a goodwill message, Hon. Bisi Oyedele, representing Ipokia State Constituency in the Ogun State House of Assembly, underscored the importance of integrating the energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives of young people into Nigeria’s governance framework.
The event not only showcased growing political mobilisation among Ogun youths but also reinforced calls for a more inclusive and participatory democratic system as the 2027 political landscape gradually takes shape.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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