Yenagoa—Comr. Benson Boyelayefa Josiah, an aspirant vying for the position of Treasurer in the forthcoming Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Central Zone election, has vowed to put the interest of the Ijaw race when elected.
Benson who is from Tarakiri Clan in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State noted that his reason for contesting the position is not for selfish purposes but to make a huge difference.
In an exclusive interview with Mangrovepen.ng on Thursday, the youth leader disclosed that three positions were zoned to his senatorial district: the office of the Vice President, Treasurer, and the office of the Woman Leader.
“I opted to run for the Treasurer position because that is where I would be effective and make the most difference,” he said.
When asked why he is in the race, Josiah said “I am not vying for the position for selfish interests or my gains. I am not contesting because I’m the most qualified person nor because I’m the most intelligent person. I’m contesting because I can add value to the council.
“I opted for the Treasurer position because of the experience I have gotten from being in different positions of leadership. I am very fit for the role given my track records in various organizations I have worked in the past.”
He maintained that as a member of the United Nations Peace Ambassadors, a former representative of Bayelsa State and Nigeria in the African Youths for Development Commission, and a one time Acting National President of the Niger Delta Youths for Practical Development, he possesses the experience, exposure, and leadership qualities to manage the Treasury of the IYC.
Josiah, while speaking on what he will do differently if elected, said that “What I will do differently is not the general ‘go and knock doors and fight’ companies and foment trouble.
“I will be accountable for everything that comes to the treasury. Remember, I am neither the chairman nor financial secretary but one thing I can assure you is that I will ensure a functioning database for account and dues payment.
“I’ll be a voice in the Council but never against the Council neither will I fight my leaders. I’m only there to hear from my people and tell my leaders who are the elders and also my chairman because he leads and I follow.”
He promised to work concertedly with other leaders and stakeholders of council to build a stronger IYC Central Zone “away from the violence.”
Benson assured Ijaw youths in the zone that “During my time as the treasurer, you’ll have direct access. I’ll be accessible, accountable to make the Ijaw race a better race for our children to come and inherit.”