By Chibuike Nwabuko
Abuja (Sundiata Post) – Coalition of youth groups under the auspices of G32 has commended the outspokenness of the Governorship candidate of the United Progressive Party (UPP), Chief Osita Chidoka and his party in the release of some tricycle operators arrested by soldiers during Monday’s clash between civilians and security operatives in Umuahia, the Abia State capital.
Leader of the group, Engr. Ben Chude who acknowledged that its Chief Chidoka and UPP’s demand for the whereabouts of the victims of the clash that led to their release, said there would not have been agitation in the region if there are more bold and people-oriented leaders like Chidoka and political parties like the UPP.
He recalled that “no other Igbo leader showed adequate concern for the fate of the victims.”
This was disclosed on Thursday in a statement signed by the Director Media, Osita Chidoka Campaign, Viola Ifeyinwa Okolie sent to Sundiata Post.
The youth leader also confirmed that last month’s transfer of the Ofor Igbo, the Igbo traditional symbol of authority from Governor Willie Obiano to Chief Chidoka was a sealed direction of the election.
He reminded that he youths are convinced that Chidoka will bring his wealth of experience from the public service into the government of Anambra State, having excelled in all his assignments in the Federal Government including as Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission and Minister of Aviation, without stain.
In his remarks, Chief Chidoka thanked the youth for their support and urged them to continue to be law abiding, calm, and not to engage in any act of violence.
He equally called on security agencies to apply caution and utmost professionalism in their engagements with civilians.
Chidoka who assured the youths that he and the UPP will continue to stand in defense of the right of the ordinary people, added that it is now clear that APGA and its government in the state as well as Igbo leaders in the All Progressives Congress (APC) have all betrayed the people and abandoned their common good.
He urged the youth to continue to work hard in their mobilization efforts and assured them that his government will give greater priority to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, jobs and enhanced access to government guaranteed opportunities and resources in their various fields of endeavor.