Prominent legal practitioner and politician from Bayelsa State, Alabh George Turnah, has called on Ogbia youths to prioritize unity, camaraderie and kinship while going into the Ogbia Brotherhood Youth Council (OBYC) leadership election.
He emphasized the need for delegates to engage in the electoral process with integrity, urging them to reject violence and any behaviour that could tarnish the reputation of both the OBYC and the Ogbia Kingdom.
This was contained in a statement by Kelvin Egbo, media aide to Turnah ahead of the election which is scheduled to hold on Saturday, November 23, 2024.
In the words of Turnah: “It is imperative that we approach these elections with a spirit of camaraderie and respect.
“Our focus should be on the character, competence, knowledge, participation, and commitment of the prospective leaders, especially those vying for the position of national president.
“The presidential candidates, Comrade Mipuru Samuel Akaragha, Comrade Andrew Princewill, and Comrade Nathaniel Michael Goodnews all possess impressive credentials and the potential to lead effectively.”
Turnah, who is a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), called on delegates to cast their votes freely for any aspirant of their choice, free from external influences or coercion.
He commended the dedication of the electoral committee thus far and encouraged them to uphold the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and credibility throughout the election process.
“Your hard work is vital for ensuring that this election is not only free and fair but also reflects the true will of the Ogbia youth,” he noted.
He also urged all candidates to embody the ideals of aspiring leaders, deserving of respect and dignity.
The Kolo-born philanthropist added that they must work alongside the electoral committee to foster an environment that enables peaceful elections, where results are not only credible but also widely accepted by the larger Ogbia youth community.
According to him, “Unity must be paramount for all stakeholders before, during, and after these elections.
“Winners should be magnanimous in success, while those who do not win must be gracious in acceptance, always prioritizing the greater good of Ogbia Kingdom.”
Turnah who is also a member of the Ogbia Brotherhood made a generous donation of 1 million naira, distributing 5,000 naira to each delegate to assist with transportation logistics to the electoral congress venue.
The contribution aims to alleviate any financial burdens they might face while fulfilling their civic duties in the interest of Ogbia Kingdom.