---Hails Governor Nwifuru's democratic spirit
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ebonyi State Chapter, has urged youths across the state to reject political violence and thuggery as preparations intensify for the 2026 general elections, stressing that the Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) remains the most powerful tool for democratic participation.
The State Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Douglas Ochishi, made the call during an interactive session with journalists in Abakaliki, where he also commended Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for what he described as people-centred and security-driven governance.
Ochishi rated the Nwifuru administration high in democratic leadership, noting that the governor’s policy blueprint, anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs, aligns with the aspirations and welfare of Ebonyi citizens, particularly the youth population.
According to him, the relative peace currently enjoyed in the state is a product of deliberate and decisive actions taken by the governor to confront insecurity head-on.
“Governor Nwifuru has tackled insecurity in Ebonyi State to the core by beaming the security searchlight on the dens of hoodlums and dispersing them to oblivion. Democratic governance cannot thrive without security,” Ochishi said.
He added that no administration can succeed in an atmosphere of chaos, stressing that peace and stability remain the foundation upon which sustainable development and democratic governance are built.
“From the ecology of administration, no leader can thrive on the platform of chaos and disarray. Security is non-negotiable if democracy must deliver dividends to the people,” he stated.
The NYCN chairman called on the Ebonyi State Government to remain focused on fully implementing the People’s Charter of Needs, noting that youths are closely monitoring governance outcomes and expect continuity in people-oriented policies.
Speaking on the forthcoming elections, Ochishi cautioned youths against allowing themselves to be used as instruments of violence or vendetta by desperate politicians.
“The era of using youths for thuggery is over. The only weapon the citizens have is the PVC. Our strength lies in our votes, not in violence,” he declared.
He encouraged eligible voters, especially young people, to take advantage of the ongoing PVC registration exercise to ensure their participation in shaping the future leadership of the state.
While affirming that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to contest for elective office on any political platform of choice, the youth leader challenged aspirants to shift focus from politics of intimidation to issue-based campaigns.
“Everybody is free to contest, but aspirants must come prepared with clear and realistic manifestoes. Let the youths know what you have to offer. Politics is no longer business as usual,” Ochishi said.
He emphasized that Ebonyi youths are now politically conscious, informed, and prepared to make meaningful decisions at the polls based on ideas, competence, and credibility.
Ochishi expressed optimism about the state’s trajectory, describing Ebonyi as “on the rise,” and reaffirmed NYCN’s commitment to youth development as a pathway to national growth.
“Build the youth, build the nation,” he said.
