November 07, (THEWILL) – The President of the Delta Community in Bayelsa State, Asp Ambrose Obi, has called on Delta youths residing across the eight local government areas of Bayelsa to shun crime and criminality, emphasising their role in contributing to the socio-political development of both Bayelsa and their home state.
Speaking during the swearing-in and inauguration of the newly elected Delta Youth body in Bayelsa, Obi urged the youths to embrace peace, unity, and productive engagement to foster harmonious coexistence with their host communities.
The election, which was described as free, fair, and credible, was overseen by stakeholders from non-indigenes and South-South indigenes in Bayelsa.
“Today, you have been sworn in to serve, not to lord over your fellow executives. This is a privilege and not a right.
“Consult widely and ensure that your actions reflect the values of our community. Any deviation will be met with serious consequences,” Obi said.
Obi also advised the newly elected president, Comrade Gift Okrika, to lead with fairness and avoid sentiment, stressing the importance of inclusivity and collaboration within the executive team.
“As the president of the Delta Youths in Bayelsa, you must carry your executives along and be mindful of your duties.”
Also addressing the gathering, Olorogun Charles Oruru, President of the Urhobo Progress Union in Bayelsa, urged the youth body to work alongside other socio-political groups from Delta State, promoting peace and harmony both within the Delta community and with their host state.
He cautioned the new leadership to always seek counsel from the umbrella body to avoid misunderstandings.
In her goodwill message, Princess Perekeme emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence among Deltans and their host state.
She lamented the ongoing marginalisation of Delta indigenes in political appointments by the Bayelsa State government, stressing the need for fair consideration in future appointments.
“It is appalling that despite our cultural proximity and numerical strength, Delta indigenes are consistently overlooked for political positions in Bayelsa,” she said.
Other speakers, including Hon. Dr. Madapuye, President-General of South-South and Senior Special Assistant to the Bayelsa State Governor, Chief Richard Ogbage, founding father of the Supreme Council of Non-Indigenes in Bayelsa, and Chief Prince Barisuka, President of the Rivers Community in Bayelsa, urged the new executive to foster unity, avoid confrontation, and be creative in enhancing inter-communal collaboration.
They also stressed the importance of acknowledging the enabling environment provided by Bayelsa State for Deltans to thrive.
Engr. James Vwotu, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, commended the election process, describing it as free and fair. He encouraged the newly elected leaders to prove their capabilities and make meaningful contributions to the community.
In his acceptance speech, the newly sworn-in president, Comrade Gift Okrika, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, describing the event as a historic milestone for Delta youths in Bayelsa.
Okrika, who also serves as the president of the Youth Chapter under the Urhobo Progress Union in Bayelsa, promised to ensure that the youth are properly coordinated and to promote peaceful coexistence with Bayelsa.
“As Deltans, we contribute more than 65% of Bayelsa’s economy, and it is our responsibility to engage in legitimate ventures and uphold the law,” he stated.
The ceremony, which was attended by notable figures from the Delta community in Bayelsa, saw the inauguration of the new executive members.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
