Dr. Philip Nyango, Chairman of the Electoral Committee for the Plateau Youth Council (PYC), has reaffirmed the commitment of the committee to deliver a free, fair, credible, and transparent election process. Speaking today at the Plateau Youth Council premises, Dr. Nyango assured the public that the ongoing elections are for all youths of Plateau, without discrimination based on party, religion, or any other divisive factors.
Dr. Nyango highlighted the ongoing District Elections and Local Government Delegates Congress, which are leading up to the highly anticipated Plateau State Elections scheduled for September 25, 2024. He praised Governor Caleb Mutfwang for allowing the process to be fully youth-driven, free from interference or imposition.
He also addressed past issues with certain individuals who have exerted undue influence over the affairs of the PYC, accusing them of hindering opportunities for Plateau youths. “We have successfully carried out some surgical exclusions of persons who have been merchandising in the affairs of the Youth Council. These individuals have held the council hostage for over ten years, denying young people their rights,” Nyango stated.
Addressing past controversies involving missing resources, such as trucks of fertilizer and rice, as well as unaddressed travel and economic opportunities for youths, Dr. Nyango assured that only Plateau youths would decide the course of the elections this time.
He further explained the election process, emphasizing that the Youth Council elections are conducted through open ballots, with delegates acting as the ballots themselves. Yesterday’s elections, held in 88 districts, were successful, with returns being made and results already declared from several districts, including Kanam.
Looking ahead, the committee is fully prepared for the upcoming local government elections tomorrow, with all necessary electoral materials in place, including result sheets and the deployment of 264 trained ad hoc electoral officers.
While discussing the issue of zoning and rotation of leadership positions, Dr. Nyango clarified that there is no constitutional provision for zoning within the Plateau Youth Council. However, he acknowledged that traditional and cultural practices of rotation have been observed, but ultimately the law has guided the committee’s actions, allowing all eligible candidates between the ages of 18 and 45 to contest.
With over ten candidates vying for the coveted position of State Chairman, the Electoral Committee is expected to announce a comprehensive list of delegates after the local government elections, paving the way for final preparations for the state elections next week.
The Plateau Youth Council elections are seen as a significant step toward ensuring youth participation in leadership, and Dr. Nyango assured that any complaints or grievances will be addressed by the Election Petition Tribunal, which will be inaugurated today.
