Group seeks election of new breed politicians in C’River

A Cross River-based youth group, Youths in Politics for Good Governance, says the election of new breed politicians into governance will enthrone purpose and vigour in public service delivery.

The Leader, Jerry Odey who made the statement at a press conference on Wednesday in Calabar said that it was wrong to perpetuate old breed politicians in leadership positions.

“We need to vote younger people who have felt the hardship in the country. We can do this by voting for credible and competent youths at the 2027 elections,” he said.

Odey said that the poor leadership experience in the country resulted from flawed electoral choices and recycling of old politicians, saying that there was need to promote credible elections”

He stated that the ongoing collaboration with national and international organisations to promote credible electoral process in the state was in order.

The leader urged political parties in Cross River to give opportunities to candidates with integrity, competence, and commitment to community service.

“Youth inclusion in leadership is very important to ensuring service delivery in political leadership.

“Youths in the state should withdraw support from political parties that present recycled candidates.

“We also advocate for increased inclusion of women in leadership positions in the state,” he said.

Odey said that the group was opposed to prolongation of legislative tenures, describing it as undemocratic and detrimental to leadership renewal.

“Extended occupancy of public office fosters complacency and limits opportunities for emerging leaders,” he said.

He called for a sustained collaboration among youth groups, political actors, and institutions to strengthen democratic participation and governance.