CSO Raises Concern Over Delta Youth Leadership Dispute

A civil society organisation, the African Leadership Strategy and Transparency Development Initiative (ALSTDI), has expressed concern over the recent inauguration of interim youth leadership in the Igbuzo community in Delta State.

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja by its executive director, Nelson Ossaieze, the organisation called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene to prevent potential unrest.

The group said the development could undermine ongoing legal processes, noting that a case concerning the conduct of the last youth elections in the community is still before the court.

“The matter raises questions about adherence to due process and respect for the rule of law,” the group stated. “Any leadership arrangement undertaken while judicial proceedings are ongoing risks creating tension and eroding trust in democratic institutions.”

The organisation urged public officials and traditional authorities to prioritise peaceful and lawful dispute resolution mechanisms, warning that actions perceived as unilateral or exclusionary could create avoidable conflict.

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The group also emphasised the importance of inclusive governance and respect for youth participation, noting that the perceived exclusion of certain groups can weaken civic engagement.

“The courts remain the appropriate venue for resolving electoral disputes. All parties should allow the judicial process to take its course to maintain public confidence in the rule of law,” Ossaieze said.

The group also raised questions about the transparency of the meeting where the interim leadership was constituted, calling for clarity on the process and participants involved.

ALSTDI appealed to President Tinubu to initiate a fact-finding mission to the community to help foster peace and reinforce democratic norms.

“The President’s attention to this matter would signal a strong commitment to constitutional order and peaceful community engagement,” the group stated.

The organisation further called on the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and security agencies to investigate the issue and ensure that all actions comply with the law.

ALSTDI concluded by encouraging the youth of Igbuzo to remain calm and law-abiding, reiterating the need for a transparent, inclusive, and lawful process in addressing leadership matters in the community.