AUCHI – The Otaru of Auchi, His Royal Highness, H.A.Momoh, Ikelebe III said Nigeria can only move forward if its citizens jettison selfish ideology and embrace truly nationalistic ideology that tends to bind people together rather than polarise them.He stated this in his address delivered by the Daudu of Osogun village, Chief Jim Garuba at a forum organised in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, Edo State by the Kukuruku Youth Renaissance Network.
The forum which was the maiden edition was a platform for political party candidates to unveil their manifestoes as well as express their commitment to violent-free polls.
According to the Otaru, leaders in the past recognised the need to contribute to the wellbeing of the society as they operate with a common political ideology. He, however, regretted the turn of events saying, “we now have a political system where politicians find themselves into elective positions for self agrandisement”.
He therefore urged the youths body to think beyond the present system of selfish and personal ideology and chart a new beginning for better a Nigeria.
In an address, President , kukuruku Youth Renaissance Network, Comrade Theophilus Ibodemhe explained that the gathering was to draw attention to the poor representation of Afemai people in political positions and stressed the need to be liberated from the shackles of political oppression.
Comrade Ibodemhe expressed belief that if they tenaciously uphold the common struggle, Afemai could get the best of representation at the highest level.
He paid glowing tribute to the Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for standing out as a worthy son of Afemai land, having made significant impact in all spheres of human endeavour across the state, adding that they are indeed proud of him.
The political flagbearers in their various responses stressed the need for youths to uphold the sanctity of the ballot box, rather than the bullet and urged them to decide their own future by voting dispassionately for the candidates of their choice.
In a good will message, Secretary, Etsako East local government, Princess Benedictta Atoe noted that politics was a call to service adding that one should make the best use of whatever position one find himself/herself.
She noted that no administration had encouraged women as the present one in Edo State, pointing out that before now, no woman could be found in elective or appointive positions.