Give youths a chance, Abia APC aspirant urges party leaders

In Abia State, Nigeria, a young aspirant, Lucky Igbokwe, is championing the cause of youth inclusion in politics, urging the All Progressives Congress (APC) to provide opportunities for fresh faces in the upcoming 2027 general elections. As the Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement, Igbokwe made a formal declaration of his intention to contest the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency ticket at the APC state secretariat.

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Youths who have never held political office should be given a chance in the forthcoming party primary election. My ambition is not driven by mere political desire, but by a long-standing commitment to youth empowerment and party growth.

Igbokwe's appeal is rooted in a belief that fielding "youths who have never held political office" will invigorate the party and enhance its chances of winning elections in the state. He positions himself as a grassroots force, citing his mobilization of over 60,000 youths in support of President Bola Tinubu. His ambition, he states, is driven by a "long-standing commitment to youth empowerment and party growth," drawing inspiration from his past performance in the 2023 PDP governorship primaries where he secured second place.

Responding to Igbokwe's declaration, the Abia APC Chairman, Chijioke Chukwu, acknowledged his contributions and commitment. He noted that the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency seat is currently vacant and that the APC is keen to win it in 2027. However, Chukwu tempered expectations by advising Igbokwe to intensify his consultations at the grassroots, reminding him that the ultimate decision on the party's flag bearer rests with the ward and local government structures.

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No dream is too big. A dream only remains big when you are sleeping; it becomes achievable when you work towards it.

This narrative reflects a recurring theme in Nigerian politics: the generational divide and the push for greater youth participation. While established party structures often hold sway, aspirants like Igbokwe are increasingly vocal in demanding a space for younger leaders. The emphasis on grassroots mobilization and the acknowledgment of the party chairman's advice highlight the practical realities of Nigerian electoral politics, where ambition must be tempered with strategic engagement and a deep understanding of party dynamics.

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No matter how well you speak in the chamber, if your people do not feel your impact, then you have not done well.