The Youth Alliance Network (YAN) has expressed dissatisfaction over remarks by the Senator representing Ogun East, Senator Gbenga Daniel, describing his “worst is over” comment as an insult to Nigerians who are still grappling with economic hardship.

The group made this known in a statement titled “Youth Alliance Network Statement: The ‘Worst Is Over’ Narrative Is an Insult to Struggling Nigerians.”

The statement further reads:

Youth Alliance Network Statement: The "Worst Is Over" Narrative Is an Insult to Struggling Nigerians

The Youth Alliance Network (YAN) has read with profound disappointment the remarks made by Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, claiming that "the worst is over" for Nigeria's crises. Such pronouncements, made at a lavish thanksgiving event surrounded by political elites, are completely detached from the harsh realities faced daily by millions of Nigerians, especially the youth of Ogun East and across the nation.

1. A Government Failing Its Youth

Senator Daniel praised the Federal Government's efforts, citing calming inflation as a sign of progress. This is a myopic view that ignores the multidimensional crisis crippling our future:

· Economic Disconnect: While figures in Abuja may tick downward, the lived experience is of unbearable costs for food, transportation, and education. Where are the tangible empowerment programs for the youth?

· Security Theatre: To claim the worst is over insults communities still terrorized by bandits, kidnappers, and unrest. "Steady improvement" is not measured in press statements but in the safety of our roads, farms, and homes.

· Elite Congratulation Culture: The gathering of former governors, ministers, and moguls to celebrate "progress" exemplifies a ruling class that congratulates itself while the people suffer.

2. The Failures of Senator Gbenga Daniel in Ogun East

The Senator's attempt to deflect criticism by touting his personal record over 23 years is a distraction from his present failures. His tenure representing Ogun East has been marked by profound absence and underperformance:

· Zero Tangible Empowerment: There is a glaring lack of documented, impactful youth empowerment schemes, vocational training initiatives, or sustainable development projects stemming from his office.

· Divided Loyalties on State Creation: While publicly championing the cause of an Ijebu State, credible reports suggest he is simultaneously engineering the political rise of Remo interests to counter the same Ijebu agenda. This political duplicity is a betrayal of trust.

· A Generation Gap in Leadership: At a time of unprecedented challenges, we need a Senator who is of the people, not just for them. Senator Daniel's era has passed. We need energetic, accessible leadership that understands contemporary issues—digital economy, climate change, modern job creation—not outdated political platitudes.

3. Our Stand: The Demand for New Leadership

The "worst" will only be over when we have leaders who feel the people's pain as their own. Senator Daniel’s statement confirms he is out of touch. His time is done.

The Youth Alliance Network hereby calls for a new generation of leadership in Ogun East and across Nigeria. We need a Senator who:

· Lives among and truly listens to the people, understanding their needs firsthand.

· Prioritizes concrete empowerment and development over ceremonial appearances.

· Possesses the energy, vision, and integrity to fight for the people's interests transparently.

We reject empty optimism. We demand accountable representation. The future of Ogun East belongs to its youth, and we will champion leaders who reflect that future.

Signed,

The Youth Alliance Network (YAN)