ELECO Screens, Clears Aspirants for Youth Council Election

Tessy one of the aspirants during her screening confirmation recently in Calabar

Ukorebi Esien | 11th July 2024

CALABAR- The Prince Ndiyo-led Electoral Committee yesterday held an 'Aspirants Briefing and Confirmation of Screening' for all candidates for the forthcoming National Youth Council Election in Cross River State.

Addressing the aspirants at the meeting, which took place at the conference hall of the State Ministry of Youth Development, Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, stated that his committee would adhere strictly to the terms of reference handed over to them. He confirmed that the elections would be held on the stipulated dates and venue as decided during the last management meeting.

Prince Ndiyo acknowledged that his committee inherited many liabilities from the previous bodies responsible for conducting the election. To foster a peaceful and harmonious electoral process, his committee has decided to grant waivers to all aspirants. This means all aspirants, including those who were previously disenfranchised and marginalized, will be cleared to stand for the election.

"This decision is aimed at avoiding rancour and ensuring that all aspirants have a fair chance to participate," said Prince Ndiyo. "We want to provide a level playing field for everyone involved."

Aspirants used the opportunity to interact, ask questions, and seek clarifications on grey areas regarding the election. One of the aspirants, Emmanuel Olayi, expressed optimism about the process, stating, "It's reassuring to see the committee taking steps to ensure fairness and transparency."

The Cross River State Commissioner for Youth Development, Barrister Ijom-odum Ukam, who was present at the meeting, admonished both the committee and the aspirants to adhere to the constitution and avoid actions that could lead to litigation after the election. He expressed satisfaction with the process so far, adding that both the committee and the aspirants had conducted themselves with maturity and discipline.

"This election is crucial for the future of our youth council and the broader community," Barrister Ukam emphasized. "We must ensure it is conducted with the highest standards of integrity."

The successful conduct of this election is seen as a vital step towards restoring confidence in youth leadership and governance in Cross River State.

Photos From the screening excersice: