By Magnus Effiong
A youth advocacy group, Cross River Youth in Politics for Good Governance, has said it shall mobilize its members against any legislator who has spent more than two tenures in both the National nd State Assemblies.
Speaking in Calabar during a press conference, the group’s Chairman, Amb Jerry Odey decried “political dominance by a few wealthy individuals,” and advocated a more inclusive, youth-led leadership.
Criticising prolonged tenures in legislative offices, the youth leader said “It is unfair for some individuals to remain in the National or State Assemblies for decades as if it is their birthrights. This practice limits opportunities for young people and undermines the growth of our democracy.
“Why should one old man stay in a national assembly or state assembly for 12, 16 or 20 years as if it is his inheritance? he asked rhetorically, and vowed to sponsor legislation to end the trend in the near future.
The group advocated for young people, who are committed to people-based leadership, community development, and who have the state and the nation at heart, to be given the opportunity to lead.
He warned that “Any party that fields candidates who do not reflect the aspirations of the people should not expect the backing of youths”, adding “We are committed to supporting young individuals with proven track records in leadership and community development.”
While urging political parties to prioritise credible and competent candidates during their primaries, the group advised all Nigerians to speak with one voice to ensure that “only competent, credible and people-oriented individuals, mostly youth, emerge as candidates as leaders in 2027.”
The group went further to endorse 14 young individuals from Cross River for various national and state elective positions, explaining that those picked had proven to be selfless in both public offices and their private lives.
The group lauded Gov Bassey Otu for being “youth-focused,” submitting, “above 50 percent are young persons who make up the Governor’s executive council,” and that the youths are “hopeful that these political appointment positions would be translated into elective positions in 2027 and beyond.”
