Ikwo Noyo Youth Forum Dismisses BoT Chairman’s Claim of Election Invalidation
By Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
The Ikwo Noyo Youth Consultative Forum, the highest youth body in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has categorically rejected claims by its Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Hon. Benedict Ede, alleging that the Forum’s recent executive election was invalid.
In a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting held on July 19, 2025, at Amusement Park, Abakaliki, the Forum reaffirmed the credibility and legality of the executive election conducted on July 12, 2025. The election, which saw the re-election of Dr. Onyinyechi Nwankwo as President, was declared peaceful, transparent, and duly monitored by independent observers.
The communiqué, signed by several key BoT members and stakeholders, asserted that the election results stand as valid and binding. Signatories included:
- Hon. John Vitalis Ogodo – BoT member representing Echera Principal Community
- Dr. Stanley Ikeokwu Anyigor – BoT Secretary representing Okpuitmo Principal Community
- Hon. Amechi Nwekoyo – BoT member representing Unweka Principal Community
They were joined by the Forum’s Legal Team and other critical stakeholders, who described Hon. Ede’s claims as “unilateral, unconstitutional, and a blatant abuse of office.”
“The public statement issued by Hon. Benedict Ede was neither backed by a BoT resolution nor supported by the Forum’s legal team or stakeholders. It is a gross violation of the Forum’s constitution,” the communiqué stated.
The Forum further accused Hon. Ede of attempting to seize the Forum’s official vehicle, reportedly demanding that the President surrender it to him.
“This demand is not only unlawful but also absurd. The vehicle is Forum property and not subject to personal appropriation. Any attempt to seize or damage Forum property will be considered sabotage and theft, and will be met with legal action,” the statement warned.
The communiqué received full endorsement from the Forum’s Legal Team, which includes:
- Elder Barr. Friday Abah – Chairman
- Barr. Nwidagu Ikenna Michael – Former Chairman
- Barr. Nweke Emmanuel Nelson – Secretary
Numerous other legal and community stakeholders also lent their support, describing Hon. Ede’s actions as a failed attempt to disrupt the Forum’s unity and democratic processes.
In a separate disclaimer, BoT Secretary Dr. Stanley Ikeokwu Anyigor distanced himself from the resolution circulated by Hon. Ede, stating he was out of the state at the time and had not authorized the use of his name.
Concluding the communiqué, the Forum emphasized that there is no internal crisis within the organization, reiterating its commitment to constitutional order, youth empowerment, and democratic governance.
“We remain united, focused, and unwavering in our pursuit of peace, development, and accountability. The executive remains legitimate and will serve its full tenure beyond July 23, 2025.”
