By Asuquo Cletus
A youth advocacy group, Cross River State Youth in Politics for Good Governance, has endorsed 14 aspirants for various national and state elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
They urged political parties to prioritise credible and competent candidates during their primaries.
The group’s Chairman, Jerry Odey, announced the endorsements yesterday, while briefing journalists at the Ernest Bassey Press Centre in Calabar, stating that the move followed extensive consultations with stakeholders across the state.
Odey said the organisation, which he described as an umbrella body for politically active youths across party lines, decided to take an early position in the electoral process to influence the emergence of credible leaders.
“With the 2027 elections approaching, young people, who constitute a significant percentage of the voting population, must speak with one voice to ensure that only competent, credible and people-oriented individuals emerge as candidates,” he said.
He warned political parties against imposing unpopular candidates, noting that such moves could cost them the support of young voters.
“Any party that fields candidates who do not reflect the aspirations of the people should not expect the backing of youths. We are committed to supporting individuals with proven track records in leadership, community development and public service,” Odey added.
The youth leader also called for reforms to address what he described as the “recycling” of lawmakers, criticising prolonged tenures in legislative offices.
“It is undemocratic for individuals to remain in the National or State Assemblies for decades. This practice limits opportunities for young people and undermines the growth of our democracy,” he said.
He further urged the state government and political stakeholders to translate the growing number of youth appointments into elective positions by supporting young aspirants during party primaries.
Odey maintained that the group’s endorsements were based on merit and not influenced by financial inducement or political sponsorship.
“We are not sponsored by anyone. Our decisions are driven by our conviction and commitment to good governance. We believe Cross River deserves better leadership,” he said.
Among those endorsed are Oden Ewa for the Cross River Central Senatorial District; Henry Dennis Bassey for the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency; Ijom Ukam for the Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency; and Godwin Offiono for the Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency.
Others include Victor Abang for the Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency; Dan Obo Jnr for the Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency; John Odo Eru for Yala I State Constituency; Jennifer Usani Ibiang for Yakurr I; and Grace Unah for Yala II.
Also on the list are Samuel Neji Abang for Ikom I; Victor Bassey for Abi State Constituency; Phylo Modlin Odu for Boki; Victor Essien Ekpe for Calabar South II; and Thomas Aruku for Ogoja State Constituency.
The group said it would continue engagements with political parties, government officials and other stakeholders to ensure that youths and women are given greater opportunities in the 2027 elections.
It also pledged to mobilise young voters across the state to support candidates who emerge through credible and transparent processes.
