A political conversation is unfolding in Osun East as Ijesa indigenes at home and in the diaspora intensify calls for a generational and rotational shift in the senatorial representation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Operating under the platform of the Ijesa Concerned Citizens, the group is urging political parties, stakeholders, and voters to reconsider any move that could extend the tenure of the incumbent senator, Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi of the APC, beyond his current second term.
Instead, they are advocating for a new phase of leadership driven by younger representation from Ijesaland.
Their position, issued in a statement from Abuja, is anchored on what they describe as the need to preserve political balance and ensure fairness within the senatorial district. The coalition examined Osun East’s democratic journey since 1999, noting that Ife has historically dominated the seat, producing Senators Iyiola Omisore (2003–2011) and Babajide Omoworare (2011–2019), totaling 16 consecutive years.
They argue that with Senator Fadahunsi, an Ijesa representative, currently serving since 2019, allowing another term would effectively extend Ijesa’s turn but still deny the community parity within the broader historical rotation pattern. For them, the issue is less about individuals and more about structural equity.
“The Senate seat belongs to the people, not to any individual,” the group stated, insisting that political office should not become a permanent entitlement while younger and capable voices remain sidelined.
Rather than framing their demand as rivalry between communities, the coalition presented it as a call for balance, inclusion, and generational transition. They emphasized that Ijesaland has a deep pool of professionals capable of providing stronger legislative representation, improved grassroots engagement, and more targeted youth and women empowerment initiatives.
The group also appealed broadly to traditional rulers, political parties—including APC, PDP, Accord, ADC, and others—and the electorate to support what they describe as a peaceful and fair transition of leadership. According to them, inclusive representation is key to strengthening democracy in a diverse district like Osun East.
They further stressed that development should take precedence over political sentiment, arguing that what the region needs is renewed energy, expanded opportunities, and leadership that reflects the aspirations of a younger population.
“Our people deserve stronger grassroots engagement, expanded economic opportunities, better federal presence, and leadership that inspires hope,” the statement read, adding that “Ijesaland deserves progress, not political recycling.”
The coalition acknowledged the sensitivity of zoning debates in multi-ethnic districts such as Osun East, which comprises both Ife and Ijesa communities, noting that such discussions must be handled carefully to protect unity and mutual interests.
They maintained that their position is not directed at any individual but is instead a push for what they describe as healthy political transition and balanced representation. They warned that continued extension of the current tenure could tilt the historical balance of representation between Ife and Ijesa.
In closing, the group called for unity among Ijesa stakeholders, urging collective support for what they described as a “renewed political direction” that prioritizes fairness, youth inclusion, and long-term development of Osun East Senatorial District.
Ijesa demands youth Senate shift, rejects third-term agenda in Osun
