Tension has risen in Odigbo Constituency II of Ondo State as youths took to the streets of Araromi Obu to protest the emergence of Atoyebi Aderonke as an All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly aspirant, alleging that her candidacy was imposed by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
The protesting youths rejected the development, insisting that the aspirant is not an indigene of the constituency and should not represent their interests in the State House of Assembly.
Speaking during the protest, the Youth President of Araromi Obu Kingdom, Comrade Dayo Akinro, described the alleged imposition as undemocratic, stating that key stakeholders in the constituency were not adequately consulted before her emergence.
He said the development had generated discontent among youths who feel excluded from the political process.
According to him, the constituency would resist any attempt to impose a candidate, stressing that representation must reflect the collective will of the people rather than political consideration.
“As far as we are concerned, we cannot allow someone who has not contributed to the development of Odigbo Constituency II and who is perceived as an outsider to represent us,” he said. He further alleged that Atoyebi Aderonke is from Ifedore Local Government Area rather than Odigbo Local Government Area.
The youth leader warned that continued imposition of candidates could lead to strong resistance and possible unrest in Odigbo Constituency II.
However, reacting in a telephone interview, Atoyebi Aderonke dismissed the allegation, particularly the claim that she is not an indigene of the constituency.
She stated that she hails from the Awoniyi family of Araromi-Obu, describing herself as a bona fide member of the community and fully qualified to contest.
She also noted that peaceful protest remains a constitutional right, which she respects.
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