Youths in Politics NG has urged the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to reassess the nomination process for the Eti-Osa Constituency I in Lagos State. This call comes in response to a complaint lodged by aspirant John Akano regarding the party's recent nomination exercise.

In a statement issued by the President of Youths in Politics NG, the organization highlighted Akano's claims of having completed the required steps for candidacy. Akano reportedly purchased the necessary expression of interest and nomination forms, received clearance to participate, and mobilized supporters in anticipation of the party's primary election. However, he alleged that after the primary was either canceled or not concluded, there were attempts to nominate another individual who did not partake in the process.

The organization conducted a review of the materials and information related to Akano's complaint and found substantial grounds for a transparent reevaluation of the nomination process. Youths in Politics NG emphasized that their intervention does not signify an endorsement of Akano nor opposition to any other aspirant. Instead, they advocate for fairness, due process, and respect for internal democracy within the party.

"If a primary was conducted and a particular aspirant legitimately emerged victorious, the result should be properly verified and respected unless there is a lawful basis for setting it aside," the group stated. They urged the NDC to clearly articulate the legal and constitutional justifications for any alternative candidate selection method if the primary was indeed canceled or could not be validly concluded.

Youths in Politics NG also called for equal opportunities for all eligible aspirants to participate in any fresh nomination process, adhering to the party's constitution, nomination guidelines, and relevant electoral laws. They warned that excluding young aspirants after they have invested time and resources could deter youth engagement in politics.

The organization has requested the NDC leadership to review the situation surrounding the Eti-Osa Constituency I primary and to make relevant records available to the affected aspirants. They also insisted that Akano and other impacted aspirants be allowed to present their evidence and be heard before any irreversible decisions are made regarding the party's candidate.

In their statement, Youths in Politics NG recommended establishing a transparent mechanism for resolving disputes related to the primary's outcome. They called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and resolve grievances through peaceful and lawful means.

The group noted that the issue at hand extends beyond just one individual, emphasizing that how political parties manage nomination disputes could significantly impact young Nigerians' trust in the political process. They remarked, "Today, the name before us is Hon John Ademola Akano. Tomorrow, it could be another young Nigerian."

Youths in Politics NG reiterated that their demands are aimed at ensuring a process capable of withstanding scrutiny. They also called on relevant electoral institutions, including the Independent National Electoral Commission, to fulfill their statutory duties within legal limits. The organization pledged to continue monitoring developments related to the nomination process and to voice concerns if legitimate issues remain unresolved, reaffirming their commitment to justice, internal democracy, and increased political participation among Nigerian youths.