By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ebonyi State Chapter, has slammed rising insecurity across the country, calling for urgent reforms and greater inclusion of youths in leadership and governance.
Chairman of the council, Comrade Douglas Ochishi, made the position known during an Easter press conference in Abakaliki, where he expressed concern over recent killings in Plateau and Ebonyi states.
Ochishi condemned the March 29 Palm Sunday attack in Jos, Plateau State, which claimed the lives of innocent Nigerians, describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable.
“A day meant for peace, reflection, and hope was turned into one of grief and bloodshed. Nigerians can no longer feel safe, even within their homes or on sacred days,” he said.
The NYCN chairman also decried the killing of a traditional ruler in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, as well as the earlier murder of another monarch in Ikwo, noting that the incidents highlight growing security challenges.
He called on security agencies to urgently identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible, warning that failure to act decisively could further weaken public confidence in the system.
Beyond security, Ochishi cautioned against the recycling of underperforming politicians ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing it as a setback to democratic progress.
He urged the emergence of credible, competent, and visionary leaders, particularly young people willing to serve with integrity and accountability.
“Youth participation is not optional; it is essential. The future of our state and nation depends on the courage of young people to engage actively in the political process,” he stated.
The NYCN also encouraged eligible citizens, especially youths, to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing that it remains a vital tool for electing responsive leadership.
While commending the Ebonyi State Government for its efforts in governance, the council emphasized the need for sustained transparency, accountability, and measurable performance.
Ochishi further called on residents to embrace unity, peaceful coexistence, and vigilance during the Easter period, urging collaboration with security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to youth empowerment through advocacy and upcoming initiatives, including a Youth in Agriculture and Good Governance Conference aimed at equipping young people for leadership roles.
The NYCN chairman concluded by urging Nigerians to reflect on the values of Easter—sacrifice, love, and hope—while working collectively towards peace, justice, and national development.