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Okwute Youth Network: Support Group Exploring a New Demographic of Voting Bloc for Peter Obi

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There is no doubt that Peter Obi has won the hearts of many Nigerians, particularly the youths, to be specific, people aged between 18 to 40, and to be more specific, people between the ages of 21 to 35, these people are the core of Peter Obi’s supporters and they have declared absolute support for the Onitsha born former banker and businessman who served a two term tenure as governor of Anambra state for 8 years.

As already established, the core of Obi’s supporters are youths, however, there is an unexplored voting bloc which could be a game changer in the outcome of the 2023 general elections.

Young adults between the ages of 18 to 21 (who make up 9.3% of the total registered voters according to INEC) have historical been known to be oblivious of political matters as they are more preoccupied with finding their feet in a society which doesn’t really offer them so many opportunities, their academic pursuits neither gives ample time for such engagements and their total dependence on their parents makes it almost impossible for them to be free-thinking or align themselves with a political ideology, often going with that of their parents or guardians.

This is however not the case today as the ‘gen Z’ young adults are now more political aware than ever and have decided to take their own destiny into their own hands.

The recklessness associated with this demography hasn’t eluded them as they have been unable to forge themselves into a core unit, this was before Okwute Youth Network came into the picture.

Anyone who understands Nigerian politics knows the importance of support groups, as they serve as a major conduit to consolidate a candidates’ popularity, especially in the grassroots, by recruiting not just people who’d vote, but people who’d recruit people to vote, these are otherwise known as volunteers.

Okwute Youth Network

Okwute Youth Network is a Non Governmental Organization set up primarily to harness the potentials of young people whilst applying the life principles and philosophy of Peter Obi whom the organization was named after, as ‘Okwute’ is Obi’s traditional title in the Igbo ethnic group of Nigeria.

Upon Obi’s declaration to run for the Aso Rock top job in March 2022, Okwute Youth Network quickly reorganized it’s priorities and metamorphosed into a support group for Peter Obi and has since made it’s mark as a foremost proponent of the Peter Obi movement by the various sensitization projects it has engaged in all over the country, one of which is a special campaign targeted at Gen Z which has attracted quite a number of them.

Speaking to Reportera News at the just concluded Peter Obi Leadership Summit organized by Labour Party and the Coalition for Peter Obi which Okwute Youth Network is a part of, the organizations’ general secretary, Mrs Obiajulu Igwara-Ibezim, highlighted their many strides in getting the young adults on board the OBIdient movement;

We identified key components of the kind of activities they engage in, what they expect from a Peter Obi led government and how they’d be involved in not just the electioneering process but the resulting administration, these were necessary so as to cue into and move in sync with their interests in order  to sustain the high energy levels they have exhibited over the last few months”.

She further reiterated that the organization was also engaged in sensitizing other demography such as the elderly (65 years and over) and not just the young adults as every obtainable vote is needed to achieve the ultimate goal of putting Obi in Aso Rock.

However, the focus was on young people as they need more guidance since this is all new to them. She also used the opportunity to appeal to well-meaning Nigerians, to donate towards their  activities, as these engagements are financially demanding and thus need the financial backup of Peter Obi supporters who wish to see their dream of a Peter Obi presidency come to reality.

Today, Okwute Youth Network has over 8,000 registered and active volunteers between the ages 18 to 21, all of whom are first time voters. The organization hopes to increase this number to over 50,000 by the end of the year, going into the election year.

These volunteers have been working part-time and full-time with the organization in galvanizing support from other demographic strata in addition to expanding the network of the Gen Z supporters for Peter Obi.

Read More: Governor Obaseki; a huge fan of Peter Obi

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Politics

African Union Takes Action: Republic of Niger Suspended Amidst Political Unrest

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In a decisive move that reverberated across the continent, the African Union (AU) announced the suspension of the Republic of Niger from its membership ranks.

This momentous decision was unveiled during the African Union’s Peace and Security Council meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday, August 22.

African Union:Picture Source- Pinterest

The suspension stems from the recent political turmoil that engulfed the nation, with the African Union pointing to the coup orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani on Wednesday, July 26. As part of a series of sanctions imposed on the francophone West African country, the Republic of Niger faced the repercussions of its internal upheaval.

The African Union’s stance was uncompromising, as it made it clear that Western nations seeking to meddle in African affairs should refrain from interfering. This firm message was directed from the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the AU’s call for autonomy echoed loudly.

The events leading up to Niger’s suspension unfolded against a backdrop of political uncertainty and unrest. The coup in Niger, orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, prompted the Afican Union to take action. Their decision to suspend Niger was not taken lightly and was ratified during the Peace and Security Council meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on August 22.

The aftermath of the military takeover in left President Mohamed Bazoum in captivity, held under the close watch of the juntas in Niger. Despite international pressure, the release of the president and his family remains elusive. This tense situation compelled the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene, imposing sanctions on Niger and establishing a deadline for the initiation of military intervention by the sub-regional body’s standby forces.

The suspension of the Republic of Niger from the African Union serves as a stark reminder of the continent’s commitment to upholding stability and safeguarding democratic governance. The swift response underscores the African Union’s dedication to maintaining order and security within its member states, sending a resounding message to the global community about the importance of respecting Africa’s sovereignty.

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Peter Obi: “I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria”

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In a recent tweet that has caught the attention of many, @MissPearls shares an inspiring declaration made by former Anambra state governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. According to @MissPearls, Peter Obi proclaimed, “I campaigned for Presidency because I can say it any day, I Will SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF NIGERIA. All these confusion everywhere can BE SOLVED, and I am PREPARED for it”

Peter Obi: I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria.

Peter Obi’s bid for the presidency in the recent elections stirred considerable excitement and garnered support from diverse quarters, particularly the youth demographic. The former governor is known for his progressive ideas and pragmatic approach to governance, which resonated with many Nigerians who sought change and effective solutions to the country’s myriad challenges.

Despite his extensive support and well-articulated vision, Peter Obi’s presidential ambitions faced formidable opponents in the election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released results that placed him behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who emerged as the winner, and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came second. However, these results were met with skepticism due to apparent electoral irregularities that marred the integrity of the process.

In response to the controversial election outcome, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar filed legal challenges against the INEC’s declaration. This move underscores their commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the voice of the electorate is accurately reflected. As the election Tribunal Judges prepare to deliver their verdict, Nigeria watches with bated breath, eager to witness justice being served.

Meanwhile, the administration of Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken significant policy actions since assuming office. The removal of fuel subsidies and the decision to float the Naira have triggered mixed reactions across the nation. While these measures may be intended to foster economic stability and growth, the immediate consequences have been felt by everyday Nigerians. The cost of living has surged, and the socio-economic effects on the rich and the poor have become more pronounced.

As the Nigerian population navigates these shifts, the aftermath of the election and the ensuing governance strategies offer a critical juncture for evaluating the nation’s trajectory. The voices of discontent, expressed by citizens facing the brunt of these policies, highlight the necessity for leaders to prioritize the well-being of the populace while pursuing economic advancements. It is essential for the government to strike a balance between fiscal prudence and safeguarding the interests of the vulnerable segments of society.

The policy changes implemented by Bola Tinubu have shed light on the delicate balance between progress and the welfare of the people. As the nation waits for the tribunal’s judgment and the dust settles on the recent election, Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with the potential to reshape its future trajectory and address the systemic challenges that have held it back for far too long.

Fore more updates, follow us on Twitter @ReporteraNews.

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Youths in Kano Defy Police Ban to Protest Alleged Tribunal Bribery

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Hundreds of determined youths in Kano took to the streets, defying a police ban, to protest what they perceive as attempts to manipulate the state election petition tribunal. This incident unfolded against the backdrop of a ban on protests by the Commissioner of Police, Usuani Gumel, following revelations of alleged plots to obstruct justice through financial inducement in legal proceedings.

Youths in kano

The rally, which unfolded outside the state government house, saw impassioned youths brandishing placards with messages that underscored their commitment to justice and the integrity of the electoral process. Their actions were sparked by concerns over an alleged plan to bribe the state election petition tribunal, casting a shadow over the fairness of the process.

The ban on protests was issued in response to recent revelations made by Justice Flora Azinge, who unveiled purported schemes by lawyers to disrupt the course of justice through financial incentives. The Commissioner of Police cited “confirmatory intelligence products” as the basis for this decision, leaving a contentious atmosphere surrounding the freedom of assembly and the right to peaceful protest.

This ban, however, failed to deter the resolute youths who carried a variety of placards conveying their strong stance against corruption, manipulation, and injustice. The slogans they chanted resonated with their determination to safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process and uphold transparency in governance.

Among the messages displayed, one placard caught the eye with its direct callout: “Gandollar, stop spoiling the name of Tinubu.” This highlights the allegation that financial impropriety is tainting the reputation of key political figures.

In a video circulated online, the enthusiastic protesters chanted slogans that echoed their deep-seated concerns. Chants of “No to corruption,” “No to injustice,” and “No to manipulation” reverberated through the crowd, embodying the youth’s unwavering commitment to fair and accountable governance.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf praised the peaceful conduct of the protesters and assured them that their concerns would be relayed to President Bola Tinubu. This gesture recognizes the role of the youth in shaping political discourse and underscores the importance of their voices in the pursuit of a just society.

In conclusion, the youths in Kano have seized the moment to voice their concerns and demands for an unbiased electoral process. Their defiance of the police ban serves as a reminder that public sentiment cannot be easily suppressed. As this incident unfolds, it raises important questions about the delicate balance between freedom of assembly, legitimate protest, and maintaining public order. It also underscores the critical role of the youth in shaping the political landscape and demanding accountability from their leaders.

For the latest news updates, follow us on Twitter @ReporterNews. Stay informed and engaged with evolving stories from all around the world.

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