The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has issued a press statement congratulating Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on his victory in the recent Edo State gubernatorial election. The youth organization also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for their role in ensuring a smooth electoral process.
In the statement, signed by National Coordinator Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, the NDYC commended INEC for conducting a “smooth, transparent, and credible” election. The group highlighted the peaceful nature of the process and the professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in maintaining order without any reported casualties.
The NDYC urged the governor-elect, Okpebholo, to govern with “integrity, fairness, and inclusivity,” emphasizing the trust placed in him by the people of Edo State.
However, the statement also criticized the current Governor of Edo State for what the NDYC termed “baseless claims” undermining the election’s credibility. The youth group accused the governor of hypocrisy, noting that he had not questioned INEC’s fairness when he won his own elections previously.
The NDYC called on the current governor to “display statesmanship” by acknowledging the election results and supporting the incoming administration. They emphasized that “democracy is a reflection of the collective desires of the masses” and that no individual should claim ownership over the people’s will.
The statement concluded with a call for unity among all Edo citizens, urging them to support the new leadership for the state’s progress and development.