2027: Constituents demand power shift in Ifo/Ewekoro Reps seat

2026-03-17 - 22:44

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta A coalition of constituents under the aegis of “Ifo Lokan 2027 MHR Movement” has rejected the alleged fourth term ambition of the lawmaker representing Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency in Ogun State, Ibrahim Isiaka, insisting that the time has come for fairness, equity and justice to prevail. The group made its position known on Tuesday, at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Secretariat in Abeokuta, where its spokesman, Hon. Femi Akala, led hundreds of members to submit a petition to the state leadership of the party. The petition, addressed to the Ogun State APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi, was received by the party’s Administrative Secretary, Mr. Segun Bankole. The group called for the zoning of the 2027 House of Representatives ticket for Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency to Ifo Local Government Area, stressing that such a move would promote inclusiveness and internal balance within the party. The movement rejected any attempt to extend the tenure of the incumbent, arguing that it would run contrary to the principles of equity and fairness which, according to them, the APC represents. “We are not being confrontational, but advocating for what is right. Fairness and inclusiveness must guide the party’s decisions,” the group stated. Providing historical context to back its demand, the group noted that since 1999, Ewekoro Local Government has occupied the seat for a total of 16 years through Hon. Bamidele Obadina (2007–2011) and Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka (2015–2027), while Ifo Local Government has held it for 12 years through Hon. Abayomi Collins (1999–2007) and Hon. Adekunle Adeyemi (2011–2015). According to the group, considering Ifo’s larger voting strength, higher number of polling units and consistent support for the APC, the 2027 ticket should, in the interest of justice, be ceded to the area. “This imbalance underscores the urgent need for a fair rotational arrangement between the two local governments,” the statement added. Citing provisions of the party’s constitution, the group said its demand aligns with Article 20 of the APC Constitution which emphasizes fairness, equity and the equitable distribution of opportunities. Akala, however, cautioned that ignoring the call for zoning could have adverse implications for party unity, noting that granting the request would rather strengthen cohesion and trust among stakeholders. “Zoning the seat to Ifo will not weaken the existing partnership between the two local governments; instead, it will deepen unity and ensure long-term stability within the constituency,” he said. He added that the agitation should be seen as a constructive contribution to the party’s growth, expressing confidence in the leadership to take a decision that reflects its core values. “We submit this appeal with utmost respect and confidence in the leadership. The voices from Ifo are voices of hope that fairness and inclusiveness will prevail as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum,” Akala stated. The group also congratulated the state chairman on his re-election, pledging continued loyalty and commitment to the progress of the party.