"Castro Ezama Urges Cross River Youths: Don’t Sacrifice Your Lives for Politicians"

Table of Contents

1. Warning Against Violence
2. Toxic Gossip and Envy
3. Call for Love and Unity
4. Tragic Incident Recall
5. Condemnation of Hate Campaigns
6. Political Reconciliation
7. Advice to Youth
8. Appeal to the Political Class

Castro Ezama, the former Special Adviser on Education to ex-Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State, has urged the youth in the state to refrain from engaging in violent confrontations on behalf of politicians.

In a recent statement, Ezama expressed his concern that malicious gossip, jealousy, and petitions have become deeply rooted, particularly among the political elite, cautioning that this trend is hindering the state's progress.

“We must urgently begin to promote love and unity. The animosity that affected us in the past is reemerging,” he warned.

Reflecting on a tragic event during Ayade’s tenure, Ezama recounted how an atmosphere of hostility once resulted in the death of Eshu Ade Egbelo, a former Special Adviser on Inter-Governmental Affairs, who was killed for supporting a candidate of his choice.

“He was merely a Cross Riverian who chose to support his preferred candidate and met a premature end. We have lost far too many lives due to this ‘thing’ we refer to as politics,” he lamented.

The former student leader also criticized the surge of hate campaigns on social media, stating that they have caused significant harm to society.

“Every day, we wake up to read attacks on politicians from various sources. They are inflicting considerable damage upon us. This must come to an end,” he cautioned.

Ezama pointed out that during the 2023 general elections, numerous individuals who campaigned against Governor Bassey Otu now hold important positions within his administration.

He characterized this as a display of “practical love” that should be fostered to enhance unity and cohesion.

He advised the youth not to be blind followers of politicians, emphasizing that while supporters may engage in violent clashes, leaders often reconcile and continue to enjoy their privileges together.

“The individuals for whom you risk your lives often meet and socialize while you struggle in dilapidated buses. Their children are abroad, growing up in affluent areas, and one day they will be imposed upon us,” he remarked.

Ezama called on the political class to provide mentorship and serve as role models. “At your level, you are expected to guide us in both character and education,” he urged.