The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South Federal Constituency, have adopted Governor Bassey Otu’s stepson and Special Adviser to the Governor on Governor’s office, Mr. Edem Dominic Bassey as the aspirant for the House of Representatives seat in the 2027 general elections.
At a joint media briefing with students on Wednesday in Calabar, the NYCN leaders, expressed their dissatisfaction over what they see as ineffective leadership from the current House of Representatives member, Rep.Joseph Bassey
They lamented what they also called the continued sidelining of the youths by the current House member, insisting that the political space must evolve to accommodate broader inclusion and representation.
Addressing journalists, Sebastian Edet Ekpenyong, the team leader, declared that the group has resolved to withdraw its support for the incumbent lawmaker, accusing him of failing to deliver tangible democratic benefits to the constituency.
Ekpenyong, a former secretary of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, noted that the prevailing situation has left many young people disillusioned and politically disengaged.
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“We can no longer support a leader who has failed to prioritise the welfare of the people,” he said.
“Our dissatisfaction stems from years of poor representation and the marginalisation of youths in governance and decision-making processes.”
He added that the coalition had identified Bassey as a credible and capable leader who possesses the qualities required to provide effective and responsive representation at the National Assembly.
According to Ekpenyong, Bassey’s track record of accessibility, and leadership style has set him apart from the current representative, expressing confidence that he would be more accountable to the electorate.
The youth leader further disclosed that the coalition had collectively contributed funds to purchase the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination form for Bassey, ahead of the next general elections.
He explained that the move was a demonstration of their commitment to ensuring a new direction for the constituency, adding that the group would formally appeal to Bassey to accept the call to contest.
Other NYCN and student leaders from the three local government areas, narrated similar frustrations, revealing that mobilisation efforts were already underway to galvanise support among youths and students for Bassey.
