Ondo Youths have urged APC and PDP to choose under-45 running mates for their gubernatorial candidates Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Agboola Ajayi.

Specifically, the Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN) said in a statement issued Sunday that youths could no longer accept appointments as special assistant or personal assistant.

The statement said, “This has to stop. We, the youth of Ondo state, demand from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) a deputy governor who is less than 45 years old. We want young individuals as cabinet members in the next administration.

“Ondo state must follow the example set by other states in the region. We need to bridge the gap between the youth and the government to ensure effective governance and development.”

It added, “OSYN firmly believes that there are numerous capable and competent young individuals within the organization who are ready to take on leadership roles.”

The youths pledged their support to a political party that demonstrates commitment to youth-friendly policies and actions.

“We want political parties to prioritise youth representation in the forthcoming election,” the group said. The organisation will continue to engage with stakeholders and advocate for policies that promote youth inclusion and empowerment in governance.”

It stressed its commitment to advocating for youth inclusion and empowerment in governance, pointing out that “our demand for a deputy governor under 45 years old is essential for the progress and development of our beloved ‘Sunshine State’.”

“OSYN remains steadfast in its call for political parties to prioritise youth representation in the forthcoming election,” the group said.