The Coalition of Young Compatriots in Africa (CYCA), a vast network of politically informed and patriotic young professionals across Nigeria and the continent; hereby condemns in the strongest terms the disgraceful and uncivilized treatment meted out to Honourable Saheed Akinade Fijabi during the recent Youth Summit of the All Progressives Congress, (A.P.C), in Ibadan.
We observed with profound disappointment the scene where so-called “party youths” resorted to chants, threats and physical intimidation to forcefully eject Honourable Fijabi from the venue. This act of political hooliganism, fueled by blind partisanship and intolerance stands in direct opposition to the values of progressive politics, intellectual engagement and democratic discourse that should define the youth of today.
Rather than celebrating one of their own for earning the trust and recognition of the Oyo State Government through his appointment as Chairman of the Oyo @ 50 Anniversary Committee, these youths chose to display petty rivalry, sentimentality and a glaring lack of strategic political thinking.
Honourable Fijabi’s appointment by His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, is not a crime, it is a testament to his capability, vision and relevance beyond partisan lines. Governor Makinde has consistently demonstrated a commitment to inclusive and visionary governance, prioritizing competence over cronyism and empowering young people in meaningful ways.
Instead of vilifying Fijabi, the APC youth in Oyo State should be introspective. They should ask themselves why one of their brightest minds is being recognized across the aisle and what that signifies about the need for quality, cross-party engagement in nation-building.
The attempt to humiliate him only exposes a deeper malice: a culture of entitlement, incivility and intellectual poverty that continues to hinder the political development of young people in Nigeria. True political power is not seized through mob action or vocal bullying, but through persuasive ideas, genuine service and strategic engagement.
CYCA calls on the leadership of the APC Youth Caucus in Oyo State and at the national level to as a matter of urgency,
A. Publicly condemn the actions of those involved in this show of shame.
B. Take disciplinary measures to discourage future occurrences of such conduct.
C. Reorientate their youth base towards constructive politics: built on respect, dialogue and the recognition of excellence, even in political opponents.
We also urge young people across Oyo State to see Honourable Fijabi’s appointment for what it truly is: a validation of youth capacity and an opportunity to contribute to the state’s development beyond partisan boundaries. This is the silent revolution we support, one that prioritizes productivity, intellectualism and patriotic service over cheap political point-scoring.
Let us build a political culture where young leaders are encouraged to be useful, to bridge divides and to put the people’s progress above party affiliation.
Signed,
Coalition of Young Compatriots in Africa (CYCA)
Advocating for enlightened youth leadership and progressive politics across Africa.
