The Ohanaeze Youth Council, OYC has raised the alarm over the N30m expression of interest forms charged by the All Progressive Congress, APC for the Ebonyi local government election, warning that it could lead to the looting of LGA funds in future.
The National President of OYC, Igboayaka O. Igboayaka who was reacting the development on Tuesday, alleged that the process could shut out youths and people of integrity from the race.
Igboayaka urged Governor Francis Nwifuru to ensure a level playing ground and open door policy for all aspirants in the upcoming local government and councillorship polls.
He demanded that Chairmanship and Councillorship nomination fees should be slashed to N150,000 and N50,000 respectively, warning that those who pay exorbitant fees may be inclined to embezzle LGA funds after assuming offices.
“Reducing the Chairmanship and Councillors nomination fees to make it accessible to Ebonyi youths will foster healthy competition, which enhances credibility and competence.
“Paying such an exorbitant amount to secure a local government chairmanship position clearly indicates that young individuals who desire to serve as local government executive chairmen may be inclined to embezzle LGA funds if they are elected” Igboayaka said.
He further warned against what he called calculated conspiracy against Ebonyi youths or the undermining of the state’s economic and political development.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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