A group of youths operating under the banner of Owan Youths Vanguard have appealed to the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, “to closely monitor the situation in Owan West and use his office to ensure that all forms of external interference are immediately halted.”
The group was reacting to what it termed “a matter of grave concern, the growing and unacceptable external interference in the electoral process of Owan West Local Government Area.”
According to the group, “elections remain the cornerstone of any democratic society. They embody the will of the people and must, at all times, be conducted in a manner that is free, fair, and transparent.
“Unfortunately, recent developments point to a troubling pattern of interference by external actors seeking to manipulate the outcome of elections in Owan West LGA.
“Such interference is not only undemocratic but also poses a serious threat to the autonomy, dignity, and future of the Owan people. It undermines the collective voice of our communities and risks perpetuating a cycle of political and economic marginalization, what can rightly be described as a form of modern-day subjugation.”
While stating its case Owan Youths Vanguard stressed that: “The people of Owan West have the fundamental and inalienable right to choose their leaders without coercion, intimidation, or manipulation; any attempt by individuals, groups, or political actors from outside the LGA to influence the electoral process is unacceptable and must be firmly resisted and institutions responsible for conducting elections must uphold the highest standards of neutrality, transparency, and accountability at all times.”
The group stated that “individuals such as Adams Oshiomhole and Jarrett Tenebe, who have been alleged to be involved in actions perceived as interference, to desist from any activities that may undermine the democratic process in Owan West; all leaders and stakeholders within Owan West to stand united and guide the people in safeguarding the integrity of this democratic process and the good people of Owan West to remain vigilant, peaceful, and resolute in defending their democratic rights.”
Going further, the group asserted: “It is important to emphasize that individuals who do not actively engage with the people of Owan West during campaigns should not seek to determine its leadership outcomes.
“Owan West is a distinct community with its own identity, and any attempt to impose leadership from outside raises serious concerns about fairness and accountability.
“Let it be clearly stated: the future of Owan West must be determined solely by its people. Any attempt to undermine this principle will be firmly opposed through lawful and democratic means.”
