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By Chinenye Anuforo
Fresh tensions have emerged within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Epe, Lagos, following the party primaries for the Lagos State House of Assembly, as youths from Epe Constituencies I and II protest what they describe as attempts to undermine long-standing zoning arrangements.
The aggrieved youths, identifying themselves as concerned indigenes from the affected constituencies, alleged that established rotational agreements between Ikosi-Ejirin and Eredo Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) are being threatened by moves perceived to favour extended tenures for incumbent lawmakers.
The youths argued that the zoning arrangement, developed over the years to promote equity and political inclusion, is now under pressure, raising fears of marginalisation and growing discontent among party faithful.
In Epe Constituency II, comprising 11 wards shared between Ikosi-Ejirin and Eredo LCDAs, the protesters claimed that the existing understanding allows each LCDA to occupy the assembly seat for a maximum of two terms.
They maintained that with Ikosi-Ejirin’s turn allegedly due under the arrangement, support for a third-term bid by the current representative has generated resentment among many young people in the constituency.
A similar situation, they said, exists in Epe Constituency I, where the incumbent lawmaker’s reported quest for a fifth term has sparked criticism and renewed debate over political succession and representation.
According to the youths, continued extension of tenures risks limiting opportunities for younger aspirants and emerging leaders.
In a joint expression of concern, the group accused some party leaders within Epe Local Government Area of placing personal interests above collective agreements that had sustained peace and cohesion within the APC in the division.
One youth leader, who spoke anonymously, alleged that monetary considerations may have influenced certain decisions surrounding the primaries.
“What was designed to promote fairness and inclusive governance is now being challenged,” the youth leader said. “Many young people feel disappointed and betrayed by actions that appear to disregard established agreements.”
The protesters stressed that the rotational formula, which reportedly evolved from a single-term understanding to a two-term arrangement, was intended to ensure balance between the constituent LCDAs and prevent political dominance by any particular bloc.
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They warned that failure to respect the arrangement could undermine the APC’s support base in Epe, traditionally regarded as one of the party’s strongholds in Lagos State.
The concerns have also revived memories of the political tensions that trailed the 2025 impeachment controversy involving former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
Some of the youths suggested that current political alignments may be linked to loyalties formed during that turbulent period, though they stopped short of making direct accusations.
They maintained that, rather than encouraging prolonged tenures, party leaders should focus on rebuilding confidence and promoting wider participation.
The group appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC National Working Committee (NWC) to intervene and ensure adherence to principles of justice and fairness.
According to them, unresolved grievances could alienate young party members and affect mobilisation ahead of future elections.
“The structures built over time should not be allowed to collapse,” the youths said in their statement. “The APC must continue to be seen as a party that upholds fairness and equity.”
Political observers note that while Epe Division remains a major APC stronghold, lingering disputes over zoning and succession could dampen enthusiasm among grassroots supporters if not carefully managed.
Sources within the constituencies said several aspirants from Ikosi-Ejirin LCDA, particularly from the Ikosi district, have indicated interest in contesting should the rotational arrangement be maintained.
Meanwhile, stakeholders from both Eredo and Ikosi-Ejirin LCDAs are said to be engaging party elders in dialogue aimed at preserving unity as preparations gradually begin towards the 2027 general elections.
For now, the protesting youths insist they will continue pursuing peaceful engagement while awaiting intervention from the party’s national leadership.
