As Lagos prepares for the July 12 local government elections, the Alimosho Youth Development Association of Nigeria (AYDAN) has issued a passionate call to action, urging young residents of Alimosho Local Government Area to rise above political apathy and shape the future of their communities through the ballot box.
In a statement released by Shakirudeen Bankole, President of AYDAN, the group lamented the persistently low voter turnout among youths in Alimosho-Nigeria’s most populous LGA and a key electoral stronghold in Lagos politics.
An analysis by the youth-led civic organisation revealed troubling statistics from past local government elections in the area. Despite boasting over 1.2 million registered voters in 2017, only 14.8% voted, with youth participation accounting for just 5.3%. The 2021 polls saw marginal improvements—16.4% voter turnout and 6.1% youth participation—yet the figures remain deeply concerning.
Also, during the 2023 general elections, which typically generate higher interest, only 29.3% of newly registered youth voters in Alimosho cast their ballots, despite accounting for more than half of new voter registrations.
“This proves that when engaged meaningfully, young people are willing to act,” AYDAN said. “But the momentum fades at the grassroots level, and that must change.”
Beyond Ballots—A Call for Accountability and Peace
AYDAN warned that low youth participation leaves governance in the hands of a narrow elite whose decisions may not reflect the priorities of young people. The group stressed that local councils are responsible for essential services such as primary healthcare, sanitation, youth employment, education, and civic infrastructure.
“The July 12 elections are not just about choosing chairmen and councillors,” AYDAN President stated. “They are about asserting our right to influence the policies that impact our daily lives—from school funding and sports centres to job creation and community development.”
The association also issued a stern warning to the political class: “Do not sponsor violence. Do not intimidate voters. The youth of Alimosho are watching, and any attempt to disrupt the will of the people will be met with civic resistance and legal consequences.”
AYDAN called on the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to conduct the elections with transparency, impartiality, and professionalism. They demanded timely deployment of materials, clear communication, and prompt action on electoral challenges.
Security agencies were also urged to protect voters, election observers, and officials. “Any officer found enabling violence or voter suppression must be held accountable,” the group stated.
AYDAN encouraged youths in the local government to mobilise peers and neighbours to vote early and peacefully and reject tokenism.
“This is our generational turning point,” AYDAN declared. “Let the history books show that on July 12, 2025, the youth of Alimosho chose participation over passivity. This is our fight, our right, our future. Let us not wait for change—let us vote for it.”