Tension heightened in Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency of Oyo State as a group of youths staged a street protest opposing what they described as an alleged move by Hon. Akinola Adekunle Alabi to seek a third term in the House of Representatives.
Hon. Alabi, currently serving his second term in the 10th National Assembly, represents the Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency. A ranking lawmaker, he chairs the House Committee on Works. He is also widely known as an entrepreneur, author, founder of NairaBET, and owner of Lekki United F.C.
Youths Demand Leadership Rotation
During the protest, demonstrators argued that after completing two terms — spanning eight years — political power should rotate to allow new representation and fresh ideas.
Protesters carried placards calling for accountability, transparency, and improved constituency development. Some participants alleged that infrastructure projects and empowerment programmes across parts of the constituency have not met public expectations.
Several residents who addressed the gathering claimed that visible development initiatives remain inadequate compared to the needs of the constituency.
Allegations and Official Response
The local protest comes amid wider national conversations regarding alleged increases in lawmakers’ constituency project allocations following the removal of petrol subsidy.
At a recent media and civil society roundtable organised by the International Press Centre (IPC) in Abuja, House of Representatives spokesperson, Hon. Akin Rotimi, dismissed such claims as unfounded. He attributed the reports to political actors dissatisfied with past electoral outcomes.
Similarly, earlier comments by Ayodele Asalu alleging significant increases in constituency project funding have been officially refuted by representatives of the House.
Performance Versus Continuity Debate
Critics within Egbeda/Ona-Ara insist that leadership should be evaluated based on tangible impact, accessibility to constituents, and transparent project execution. Some accuse the lawmaker of limited responsiveness to community concerns and insufficient clarity regarding constituency projects.
However, supporters argue that Alabi’s legislative experience, his strategic committee leadership role, and his private sector background provide stability and valuable influence within the National Assembly.
A Constituency at a Crossroads
As Hon. Alabi approaches the conclusion of his second term, the constituency appears divided between calls for continuity and demands for political renewal.
Whether the protest signals the beginning of a sustained grassroots movement or represents a temporary political expression remains uncertain. What is evident, however, is that residents are increasingly vocal about accountability, measurable development outcomes, and effective representation.
Faleye S.O
Journalist
