By Precious Erugo
Youth participation in governance has become a highly valued principle in Nigeria’s political system. Given their significant population within communities, young people must be taken seriously in leadership matters. The process of electing youth leaders in any community is a crucial one, as they play vital roles in both traditional and political governance.
In Nigeria’s democratic framework, youth leaders hold prominent positions across political parties and community structures. It has long been customary for youths to manage their affairs, particularly in electing their leadership, without undue interference from elders—who, at most, provide guidance rather than direct oversight.
However, in Igbuzo, the headquarters of Oshimili North Local Government Area in Delta State, the election of new youth executives has become a contentious issue, causing significant tension within the community. The situation is so delicate that, if not properly handled, it could escalate into a full-blown crisis.
Postponed Elections and Rising Tensions
Investigations reveal that the Ibusa Youth Council elections were initially scheduled for April 2024. However, at the request of the Executive Chairman of the Local Government, the youth council executive, led by Chief Ifeanyi Asiodu, agreed to postpone the election. The decision was made to address pressing issues at the time, including the local government elections and certain youth-related crises in Ibusa.
The Ibusa Youth Council has always operated under a well-defined constitution, particularly Section 13, which grants the youth president the authority to constitute an independent electoral committee. Despite the delay, months passed without a fresh election, causing growing concern among Ibusa youths. Public outcry and multiple petitions eventually led to the formation of an electoral committee, as required by Section 13 of the Ibusa Youth Council Constitution, to oversee the election process.
The outgoing chairman subsequently announced the establishment of an eleven-member Electoral Committee, along with three advisory members. The committee was chaired by Barrister E. Charles Nwaogwugwu, with Amb. Vincent Oliminah serving as secretary. The committee was officially inaugurated to conduct the elections and usher in a new youth executive.
Palace and Local Government Involvement Raises Concerns
Following their inauguration, the electoral committee members paid a courtesy visit to HRM Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Ibusa, and his council of chiefs. During this visit, they briefed him on their mandate and readiness to conduct a free and fair election. In response, the Obuzor commended the committee for its efforts and assured them of his advisory support, as stipulated in the Ibusa Youth Council Constitution.
The committee also met with the Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Innocent Esenwezie, who pledged his full support for a peaceful and transparent election scheduled for February 2, 2025.
However, just days before the election, HRM Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi convened a stakeholders’ meeting and requested a postponement of the election date. Following another meeting, reports emerged that the local government chairman had allegedly boasted about handpicking the next Ibusa Youth Council President.
Controversial Electoral Committee List Sparks Outrage
In a shocking turn of events, a new list of electoral committee members was suddenly released from the palace. Approximately 70% of the original members were removed, and new names were added—many of whom exceeded the official youth age bracket. Notably, even the Chief Priest of Ibusa was included in the new list.
This unexpected change has led to widespread speculation that the local government chairman is attempting to manipulate the palace to serve his personal interests. Many of the newly appointed members are said to be close allies of the chairman. However, according to Section 12 of the Ibusa Youth Council Constitution, the Obuzor has no constitutional authority to appoint the electoral committee. His role is strictly advisory, making his recent actions highly controversial.
Growing Tensions and Calls for Intervention
The sudden interference of power brokers in what should be a youth-led election has caused widespread discontent within the Ibusa community. Many youths view this as an unacceptable breach of their democratic rights and a direct threat to the peace and stability of the community.
Aggrieved youths are now demanding the immediate withdrawal of both the Obuzor and the Local Government Council Chairman from the electoral process. They insist that the original electoral committee, as inaugurated by the Chief Ifeanyi Asiodu-led Exco, should be reinstated to ensure a credible election in the best interest of Ibusa youths and the broader community.
If these concerns are not urgently addressed, the situation could spiral out of control, leading to anarchy and further threatening the peace of Ibusa.