The Oyo State Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Coalition (NDC), Princess Oyeronke Akinlolu, has stated that the party's increasing support in the state is largely driven by youths and women, whom she described as the backbone of its growing acceptance.
Akinlolu made this known during an interview with The Guardian in Ibadan. She noted that the NDC is experiencing rising visibility and acceptance across Oyo State, attributing this to the active participation of young people and women in the party's structures and activities.
According to her, the political environment in the state is gradually shifting as more citizens express interest in alternative platforms outside the dominant political parties. "We are attracting a different kind of crowd, especially the youth and women, who are identifying with our vision," she said.
She explained that the party's ideology and symbolism have also contributed to its appeal, noting that the NDC logo, which represents unity and victory, resonates strongly with younger voters. Akinlolu, who described the party as relatively new in the political space, said the NDC is deliberately focused on building inclusive structures rather than relying on established political figures.
She maintained that political structures cannot be hijacked by outsiders who did not contribute to their development, insisting that loyalty and grassroots work remain key in party politics. "Nobody can take over a party they did not build. If you sit on the fence while others are building, you cannot suddenly come in and claim ownership," she said.
The NDC chairperson also disclosed that no major political figure has formally engaged or joined the party in Oyo State, adding that internal consolidation remains ongoing ahead of the party's national convention scheduled for this weekend.
On the national political outlook, Akinlolu expressed optimism about the party's prospects, saying widespread economic hardship has made many Nigerians more open to alternative political choices. "Nigerians are tired. People are hungry and frustrated. Across sectors, there is pressure. Naturally, people are looking for something new," she said.
She stressed that the NDC is prioritising youth empowerment and women inclusion as central pillars of its political agenda, describing young people as "leaders of today, not tomorrow."
Akinlolu also identified insecurity, unemployment, and poverty as key challenges the party intends to address if elected, arguing that restoring security would help revive economic activities, particularly in agriculture. She further called for professionalism in governance, especially in critical sectors such as power, insisting that only experts should be appointed to technical ministries. "You cannot place people without technical knowledge in sensitive sectors like power and expect results. Professionals must be allowed to lead," she said.
