UMUAHIA/Nigeria: The youths in Abia state had been called to avoid quick endorsement of candidates aspiring for political offices without knowing their background.
The admonition was given by Mr.Ndoku Chidebere, an Aspirant for the Abai State House of Asembly, for Osisioma Ngwa North State Constituency, under the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, for the 2019 election.
Mr. Chidebere in his statement made available to Ndokwa Reporters, said that the situation in the state of lack of development, since 1999, should be a concern to all well meaning Abians, and as such, the brazen promises and the use of the youths to get endorsement on social media platforms should not be encouraged.
“I am compelled to bare my mind on a very disturbing trend amongst Abia youths which in my estimation- must worry every concerned observer.
While cautioning the youths to avoid the mistakes of the past years, he pitched the problems bedevilling the state on the doorsteps of the elites, the traditional institutions and the clergies who had refused to speak out for fear of being locked out of the corridor of power in the state.
“As many of us have identified and consistently harped on, the biggest culprits for the mess we live with in Abia today are the elites- the big men, the pastors, bishops, traditional rulers and just about anyone who refused to use his voice in protest against the comedy of errors that has gone on in Abia over the last 19 years in the name of governance.”
“The conspirational silence of our big men and women brought Abia to this sorry pass where we now live in awe of the giant infrastructural transformation taking place in Ebonyi state while Abia continues to struggle with payment of salaries and pensions.”
“Perhaps I should ask again- when last did you hear an Abia “big man” who is not running for office next year condemn the criminal refusal of the Ikpeazu administration to pay salaries and pensions.”
“When last did you hear a wealthy resident of Umuahia speak up against the mountains of refuse that have taken over the state capital.”
“Who in Abia for example can you compare with an Archbishop Obinna in Owerri Catholic Archdiocese? Which of our many traditional rulers can stand up to government like Eze Njemanze of Owerri? Who in Abia can do what the likes of Okey Ndibe, Chuks Ilogebunam and co did in Anambra in protest of the antics of some political thugs who wished to make the state their personal fiefdom.”
He called on the people of the state to avoid being used to achieve their political ambition, as many of them are preparing to contest, and contest not for the good of the people, but for their self interest.
“Now we are here. Elections are around the corner and the vulture-like elites are gathering. They are weighing their chances to know where their bread would be best buttered.”
“That is why I am coming with a word of caution for our youths: be mindful of the tricks and games of these men for they hardly care. Do not be in a hurry to share the posters of any politician on your social media wall. Be careful with who you adopt and support for any office.Study them very well, understand their antics, their politics and philosophy, what do they represent, what is their motivations.”
“Find out what they had been known for prior to this time. How many persons have they assisted to reach their dreams and goals? How many persons have climbed on their backs? Do not be afraid to ask questions.”
“We must altogether not throw ourselves at anyone. I instead would insist we speak and stand with the masses, the downtrodden, the deprived and the oppressed.
He advice the youths to be lead negotiator, to attract development benefits to their communities and people.
“In this political season, be a lead negotiator for your community, your street and your age-mates. Find out the proposition of each of the politicians in terms of jobs, economic empowerment, expansion of economic opportunities, rural infrastructure and much more.”
