As Lagos prepares for its Local Government Elections scheduled for Saturday, July 12, 2025, the Alimosho Youth Development Association of Nigeria (AYDAN) has called on youth across the state—particularly in Alimosho—to reclaim their civic power and participate actively in shaping grassroots governance.
In a statement released Thursday, Comrade Shakirudeen Bankole, President of AYDAN, decried the persistent voter apathy that has plagued previous local elections in the state. Drawing from his background in journalism, public policy, social advocacy, and psychology, Bankole provided a sobering analysis of voting patterns that reveal a troubling disengagement by young people.
“Alimosho remains the most populous local government in Nigeria and the electoral heart of Lagos politics. Yet, youth participation in LGA elections has remained alarmingly low,” he said.
Citing figures from past elections, AYDAN highlighted that in 2017, only 14.8% of registered voters in Alimosho turned out to vote, with youth participation at a dismal 5.3%. The 2021 elections saw a marginal increase, with 16.4% turnout and youth participation inching up to 6.1%. While the 2023 general elections witnessed higher youth engagement during the voter registration process—where young people made up 52.5% of new registrants—only 29.3% showed up on election day. “This drop-off demonstrates that while youth enthusiasm can be sparked, it often does not translate to consistent participation in local governance,” Bankole noted.
The AYDAN President emphasized that political apathy among young people leaves decision-making in the hands of a narrow elite, often out of touch with the needs of the broader community. He argued that local government is the most immediate tier of governance, responsible for essential services such as healthcare, waste management, and youth empowerment—sectors that directly affect young lives.
“This election is not just about electing chairmen and councillors; it’s about deciding who manages our streets, our schools, our markets, and our futures. With over 65% of Alimosho’s population being youth, we have the numbers to shift the tide,” Bankole asserted.
Bankole, who also has significant experience in grassroots development and humanitarian work, cautioned the political class against orchestrating violence, vote buying, or intimidation. He warned that any attempt to subvert the democratic process would meet organized civic resistance and legal consequences. “The youth of Alimosho are vigilant. We are not bystanders. We will resist every anti-democratic act and hold perpetrators accountable.”
He further called for a level playing field for all candidates and parties, stressing that democracy thrives only when fairness, transparency, and inclusion are guaranteed. “No candidate should enjoy undue advantage through the abuse of state power. Young women, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups must be allowed to participate freely,” he said.
AYDAN also urged the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to uphold professionalism, impartiality, and transparency in the conduct of the election. The organization emphasized that the credibility of the entire process hinges on LASIEC’s ability to deliver timely updates and ensure the smooth distribution of electoral materials across all wards.
On security, Bankole called on the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to prioritize voter protection and community engagement. “Any officer complicit in enabling violence or voter suppression must face swift and public accountability. The safety of voters is non-negotiable,” he said.
AYDAN’s final message was a direct call to the youth: mobilize, vote early, ask candidates tough questions, and show up with your Permanent Voter Cards. “This is your fight, your right, and your future. Let history remember July 12, 2025, as the day Alimosho youth rose to take ownership of their destiny,” Bankole declared.
With just two days to the polls, AYDAN’s rallying cry is clear—Lagos youth must not wait for change. They must vote for it.
