By Adesina Wahab

Stakeholders, youth representatives, union leaders, and student executives from Ife North, both at home and in the Diaspora, have raised concerns over what they described as the continuous marginalisation of the local government in political representation and development.

The group, under the aegis of the Coalition of Concerned Stakeholders of Ife North, made their position known during a gathering, where they called for fairness, inclusion, and equitable distribution of political opportunities.

In a statement signed byOladele Oluwafemi E. (Fresh Diamond), General Secretary of NANS JCC Ondo, the coalition lamented that despite the active participation and contributions of Ife North indigenes during elections and political mobilisations, the area has remained largely sidelined when it comes to leadership positions, appointments, and developmental initiatives.

According to the statement, “For years, Ife North has remained committed and active in the political process, yet has consistently been pushed to the background when it comes to real political power and representation. This reality is both painful and unfair.”

The coalition emphasized that the local government is not lacking in capable individuals, noting that it possesses a pool of intelligent, competent, and influential personalities who are well-positioned to take up leadership roles beyond the local level.

They attributed the persistent exclusion to what they described as a long-standing mindset that undermines the leadership potential of the people of Ife North, a narrative they vowed to challenge.

The group further stated that their movement is not driven by sentiment alone but by a collective awakening aimed at demanding rightful recognition and participation in governance.

“We are demanding fairness, inclusion, and recognition of our contributions. Our youths deserve opportunities, our farmers need support, and our communities require improved infrastructure. We can no longer be treated as an afterthought,” the statement added.

The coalition stressed that the call for inclusion goes beyond politics, describing it as a matter of securing the future of young people whose potential continues to be hindered by systemic exclusion.

They reaffirmed their commitment to sustained advocacy, mobilisation, and unity among stakeholders until Ife North attains its rightful place in the political and developmental landscape.

The statement concluded with a call for collective responsibility and continuous engagement, emphasizing that the movement marks the beginning of a renewed push for equity and representation.