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The Coalition of Concerned Youth of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara Central Senatorial District has called on the party leadership to zone its 2027 senatorial ticket to Asa Local Government Area, citing the need for justice, equity, and fair representation.
In a statement issued in Ilorin, the group said its position was informed by a careful review of the historical pattern of representation in the district, which it described as skewed and exclusionary.
According to the coalition, Asa Local Government has never produced a senator since the return to democratic rule in 1999, despite being one of the largest and most community-rich areas in Kwara Central.
The group noted that past representation has largely been dominated by Ilorin West, with recent shifts to Ilorin East, leaving Asa consistently sidelined in the political arrangement.
Describing the situation as a “structural imbalance,” the coalition stressed that the time has come to correct what it termed decades of political marginalisation.
It explained that the call for “Asa Lokan”—meaning “It is Asa’s turn”—goes beyond a slogan, representing a broader demand for inclusion, development, and political justice.
The coalition further argued that zoning the PDP ticket to Asa would not only address longstanding grievances but also strengthen party unity and enhance electoral prospects.
“Equity demands that every component of Kwara Central be given a fair opportunity to lead. Concentration of power in one axis undermines democratic ideals and weakens party cohesion,” the statement said.
It added that presenting a candidate from Asa would expand the party’s grassroots appeal, energise voters, and position the PDP as a credible alternative anchored on fairness.
The group also urged the PDP to demonstrate its commitment to inclusive leadership by taking a decisive stand on zoning.
As part of its recommendation, the coalition endorsed Professor Fatai Aremu as a suitable candidate for the 2027 senatorial race, citing his academic background in political science, experience in governance and public policy, and record of community service.
It described his candidacy as a blend of competence, integrity, and electoral viability capable of boosting the party’s chances in the election.
The coalition called on party leaders in Kwara State to initiate a transparent zoning process in favour of Asa, while urging stakeholders to prioritise justice over personal interests.
It also appealed to youths and grassroots mobilisers to sustain peaceful advocacy for equitable representation, and encouraged party members to unite behind the demand.
“The time to correct this imbalance is now. For over two decades, Asa Local Government has been excluded from producing a senator in Kwara Central. This must change,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its position, the coalition declared: “ASA LOKAN 2027.”
It urged the PDP to lead by example in promoting fairness, unity, and democratic integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
