From Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki
Governor David Nweze Umahi on Friday urged the corps members to eschew all forms of electoral malpractice while discharging their electoral duties in the forthcoming 2023 general elections in Ebonyi State.
The governor who gave this advice during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2023 Batch "A" Stream "I" Corps Members at the old MacGregor College in Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, also urged them to be 'neutral as agents of change' at the polls.
Umahi noted that 'the country is undergoing a period of transition with the 2023 general elections by the corner' and asked the Corps members as 'true Nigerians who will be part and parcel of the conduct of the election,' to 'discharge their electoral duties with diligence and transparency.'
He recalled that the NYSC has attained remarkable milestones in its mandate of national unity, integration and development since its inception over 49 years ago, and however, advised the corps members to be active participants in their orientation course in the camp to accelerate the country's advancement.
"Great Nigerians, as you commence your one-year national service in Ebonyi State, I call on you to dedicate yourself with renewed vigour, conviction and commitment to the progress and development of our dear nation, to bring about positive development in your host communities. Gentlemen Corps members, national unity and integration should be the top priority of every Nigerian.
"We must co-exist to achieve this common goal irrespective of our cultural backgrounds. What we need is cooperation and teamwork to forge ahead," the governor said.
In addition, the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports and Chairman State NYSC Governing Board, Charles Akpuenika urged the corps members to participate in all the camp activities seriously, bearing in mind that the government of Ebonyi state has a tradition of rewarding corps members who excel at the service year.
The NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs Bamai Mercy Dawuda commended Governor David Nweze Umahi and other government functionaries who honoured the event despite their crowded schedules.
The Coordinator who also appreciated the assistance of the collaborating agencies to the NYSC and camp officials announced that a total of 680 corps members comprising 318 males and 362 females were registered in the orientation camp while commending their peaceful conduct since they arrived in the camp.
Recall that the oath of allegiance on the corps members was administered by the Chief Judge of Ebonyi State, Justice Elvis Ngene ably represented by Justice V.N Nwanchor.
