By Precious Erugo
Tensions are escalating in Ibusa, the headquarters of Oshimili north local government area in Delta State, following a controversial alteration of the youth electoral committee list.
The sudden changes, allegedly orchestrated by political power brokers, have sparked outrage among the youth, raising concerns about potential unrest.
In a letter dated February 6, 2025, President General Chief Ifeanyi Asiodu informed His Royal Majesty (HRM) Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi that the youth council has historically operated in a peaceful environment.
The Ibusa Youth Council, operating under a well-defined constitution, had initially scheduled its leadership election for April 2024.
However, at the request of the local government chairman, Hon. Innocent Esenwezie, the election was postponed to address other pressing issues, including the local government elections and community conflicts.
Months later, amid growing agitation from youths demanding a new executive body, the council appointed an 11-member electoral committee, chaired by Barrister Charles Nwaogwugwu with Amb. Vincent Oliminah as secretary.
The committee received endorsements from both the Obuzor of Ibusa, His Royal Majesty (HRM) Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi, and the local government chairman, who pledged support for a peaceful election set for February 2, 2025.
However, just days before the scheduled election, a drastic turn of events unfolded.
The Obuzor of Ibusa convened a stakeholders’ meeting and unexpectedly called for a postponement.
Following this, a new electoral committee list emerged from the palace, with 70% of the original members removed and replaced by individuals, some reportedly beyond the youth age bracket, including a chief priest.
This move has fueled allegations of manipulation, with accusations that the local government chairman is using the palace to push his preferred candidates.
Critics argue that, Section 13 of the Ibusa Youth Council Constitution, the Obuzor’s role in the youth election is purely advisory, not administrative.
Angered by this interference, many youths are demanding that both the Obuzor and the local government chairman withdraw from the electoral process and reinstate the original committee to ensure a free and fair election.
The brewing crisis underscores deeper political maneuvering and power struggles that, if not carefully managed, could plunge Ibusa into chaos.
As of press time, the chairman had not responded to the text message. Despite repeated efforts, reaching the traditional ruler proved unsuccessful.
