Chief Nnamdi Iheoma, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Imo State chapter, has voiced his views on critical national issues, including youth participation in politics and government accountability.
In an exclusive interview with LEADERSHIP in Abuja yesterday, Iheoma emphasised that young people with solid ideologies must actively engage in the political system rather than wait for opportunities to be handed to them.
Drawing from his own political experience, he explained that his entry into politics was driven by presenting viable ideas and solutions at the local government level, which gained support through clear and convincing arguments.
He criticised the prevailing culture of political patronage, where loyalty to individuals supersedes loyalty to systems and processes. He urged young people to advocate for transparency and democratic processes, especially within their parties.
Recalling the immunity granted to government officials, Iheoma expressed concern that such protections allow politicians to avoid accountability for serious crimes.
He called for removing or adjusting immunity clauses to ensure leaders cannot escape justice, even for grave offences.
Iheoma further questioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ‚s ability to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections in its current state. He encouraged Nigerians to continue advocating for electoral reforms and holding leaders accountable despite his concerns.
He stressed the importance of speaking truth to power and working toward change, even in the face of systemic corruption.
Highlighting the deep-rooted nature of corruption in Nigeria, Iheoma described it as a product of poverty and desperation. However, he remained optimistic, believing change is possible if citizens continue to challenge the system and push for good governance and transparency.
He also called on young people to take an active political role, emphasising that meaningful change will only come through persistence, determination, and a commitment to societal progress.
