The Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta, MEND, today endorsed Charles Omusuku’s candidature for the position of President of Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, just as it dismissed the election that produced Eric Omare as President in a factional election.
In a statement signed by its Spokesman, Jomo Gbomo and made available to DAILY POST, MEND noted that it would consistently support Charles Omusuku’s candidature, if he does not derail.
MEND based its dismissal of Eric Omare’s election on alleged support for politicians of questionable character by the Udengs Eradiri’s administration, stressing that it is the main support base of the new administration.
“Indeed, after the shenanigans of Mr. Udengs Eradiri and Eric Omare; together with a conspiring coterie of executive members of the prostrate and discombobulated Ijaw Youth Council IYC, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta ,MEND, are glad to welcome the fresh breath of air given to the IYC by the participants to the just concluded National Unity Convention which was held on March 5, 2017 at Okrika Clan in the Eastern zone.
“We note with utmost regret, the ineffectual, rudderless, myopic and jaundiced leadership style of the out-gone IYC President Udengs Eradiri and therefore commend all Izon sons and daughters who united at Okrika Clan in Rivers State to forge a common and formidable front towards arresting the leadership crisis that had bedeviled the IYC.”
“Under Mr. Eradiri’s watch, the IYC unfortunately abdicated its traditional role of defending the truth – “IZON”. Rather, with the active support and connivance of Eric Omare, Mr. Eradiri lent the platform to corrupt elements in the society by holding provocative protest rallies, addressing press conferences, etc., in support of individuals who clearly have questions to answer with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,EFCC.That was a willful and provocative abuse of the office of President of the IYC.”
“In the light of these premises, we have carefully, rigorously and painstakingly assessed the strengths, viability and weaknesses of all the IYC Presidential Aspirants. Without prejudice to the aspirants and their respective supporters, it is crystal clear to us that Comrade Charles Omusuku who had once served in the leadership of the IYC in the capacity of National Secretary General, is the most experienced and trustworthy candidate.”
“We shall however, not hesitate to withdraw our endorsement in the event that Comrade Charles Omusuku fails, refuses or neglects to abide by the tenets, principles and ideals of the Ijaw struggle.”
In a swift reaction, the factional IYC Spokesman, Barr. Henry Iyalla stated that MEND is not an affiliate of the Ijaw Youth Council and as such does not have the right/ power to elect or remove anyone as IYC President.
Iyalla also enjoined MEND to dissociate itself from the activities the IYC, noting that the Eric Omare led Executive of the IYC was duly elected by the IYC members at its 7th National Congress held recently.
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