Residents and stakeholders from the Ifesowapo axis of Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State have voiced strong concerns over what they describe as decades of political neglect, despite their unwavering participation in electoral processes.
Ifesowapo, comprising Wards 1 and 2, is widely regarded as a loyal voting bloc. However, community members say their commitment has not translated into meaningful inclusion in governance.
“Election after election, our people show up, believing their votes matter,” a community representative said. “But when it comes to appointments and decision-making, we are nowhere to be found. Our votes count, but we don’t.”
Stakeholders argue that the prevailing reliance on “electoral value” , often determined by the number of wards and voting strength, has continued to sideline smaller communities like Ifesowapo.
“Electoral value should not be used as a basis for exclusion,” another local advocate stated. “It should be an opportunity to uplift every community, especially those that have been overlooked for too long.”
Residents pointed to the lack of substantive political appointments, minimal inclusion in policy discussions, and absence from key decision-making bodies as clear signs of systemic marginalization.
Elders in the community expressed frustration over what they described as years of unacknowledged loyalty, while youths warned that the trend is discouraging civic engagement.
“Despite everything, we have remained committed to the democratic process,” a stakeholder noted. “But loyalty should not mean silence in the face of exclusion.”
Community leaders emphasized that their demand is not for preferential treatment but for fairness and recognition.
“We are not asking for special favours,” one elder added. “We are simply asking to be seen, to be heard, and to be included.”
Icon Bolanle Balogun
They urged political leaders to adopt a more inclusive governance approach that reflects the contributions of all communities, regardless of size.
