Yagba Progress Defenders Rally Behind Rep Leke Abejide, Say “Development is Non-Negotiable”
A coalition of Yagba indigenes under the banner “Yagba Progress Defenders” has called on residents and stakeholders to reject political distractions and protect the development gains recorded in Yagba Federal Constituency.
At a press briefing addressed to journalists, the group said it was speaking “not because of politics, but because of Yagba,” stressing that silence was irresponsible while genuine progress faced attacks.
The group praised the representation of Rt. Hon. Elder Leke Abejide, member representing Yagba East, Yagba West and Mopamuro Federal Constituency, describing his impact as “visible, measurable, and accessible.” They cited his recent distribution of ₦10 million each to 72 communities across Yagba as evidence of grassroots commitment.
“His developmental initiatives in infrastructure, empowerment, education, youth support, healthcare, and community development have positively impacted lives across Yagba and neighbouring constituencies,” the group stated.
Yagba Progress Defenders condemned what they termed “orchestrated campaigns” against Abejide by individuals with little record of public development. They asked: “If a representative who delivers results can be attacked for seeking to continue service, what message are we sending to future leaders? Should performance now become a crime?”
On controversies surrounding the APC primary, the group said the election was conducted in line with party constitution, guidelines, and electoral laws, and produced a clear outcome. They urged critics to use lawful channels instead of “media campaigns intended to create confusion.”
The coalition also recalled that Abejide’s political relevance predated his APC membership, noting he won elections on performance and trust before joining the party at the request of youths and stakeholders. They affirmed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda, urging APC leadership to recognize his “strategic value and electoral strength.”
*“No amount of blackmail, falsehood, intimidation, or political manipulation can replace the judgment of the people at the ballot box,”* the group declared. “Yagba has moved forward. Yagba must continue to move forward. Let the people decide.”
They called on stakeholders to embrace issue-based politics, respect democratic processes, and prioritize constituency interest over personal ambition.
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(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JUNE 23RD 2026)


