Ebonyi 2027: Youth group grills political candidates, sign peace accord
Candidates for Ebonyi State Elections Commit to Peaceful Campaigns
OHaukwu, Ebonyi State — Political candidates vying for various elective offices in the 2027 general elections were placed under the spotlight this past weekend during an interactive forum organized by the Ohaukwu Youth General Assembly. The gathering provided a platform for aspirants to present their campaign plans and sign a peace accord dedicated to ensuring violence-free electioneering.
Held at the Grace Garden and Event Centre, the event attracted candidates, youth leaders, community stakeholders, and security agencies. Organizers described the forum as a significant step towards fostering peaceful political engagement and promoting accountable leadership in the lead-up to the elections.
Emmanuel Onah, the National President of the Ohaukwu Youth Assembly, emphasized that the forum was designed to encourage direct interaction between the youth and political candidates. This engagement aimed to enable voters to evaluate the candidates’ ability to deliver effective representation.
“We have worked tirelessly to diminish cult-related activities, drug abuse, and youth unrest in the area,” Onah said, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain peace in the local government. He also noted that all participating candidates signed a peace accord, committing to conduct their campaigns without violence or disruptions to public order.
During the forum, Barrister Tochukwu Ogalagu, a candidate for the Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency, identified unemployment as a key contributor to insecurity and social turmoil among youth. He asserted that providing employment opportunities could significantly mitigate violence and criminal behavior.
“The first responsibility of a representative is to engage youth and provide them with jobs. When young people are employed, disruptions will be minimized,” Ogalagu stated, detailing his intent to prioritize job creation, educational scholarships, and skills acquisition if elected.
Chief Onyeoma Kelechi, a candidate for the Ohaukwu South State Constituency, underscored his commitment to education and youth empowerment, citing past efforts in establishing schools and scholarship programs through his foundation.
Additionally, Barrister Christopher Ajagba, running for the Ohaukwu North State Constituency under the National Democratic Coalition, stressed the importance of peacebuilding in addressing local conflicts. He called for initiatives that foster reconciliation and stability.
Another NDC candidate, Mr. Sebastian Valentine Odono, urged voters to evaluate candidates based on their competence and vision, unveiling a six-point agenda focusing on education and agricultural development.
Labour Party candidate Comrade Christian Mayor Iduma highlighted the necessity for visionary leadership capable of attracting development opportunities, advocating for a “healing mandate” to restore peace in conflict-affected communities.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kenneth Onwe, also of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), reiterated his commitment to grassroots development, noting prior initiatives aimed at assisting vulnerable groups.
A guest speaker at the event, Barrister Mishael Elom, cautioned against the misuse of social media and its potential legal implications. He encouraged participants to engage in issue-based politics and urged responsible digital communication to promote democratic values and peaceful coexistence.
