Anambra South Youths Must Reject Money Politics, Choose Leaders Based on Competence — Ekwueme
By Chizoba Njaka
A chieftain of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Barr. Peter O. Ekwueme, has urged youths in Anambra South Senatorial District to reject money politics and prioritise competence, integrity, accountability and credible leadership in choosing their political representatives.
Ekwueme made the call in a message to mark the 2026 International Youth Day, themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
Barr. Ekwueme described young people as the fulcrum of a thriving democracy, noting that their numerical strength, energy, ideas and active participation were essential to strengthening democratic governance. According to him, youth participation in democracy should go beyond voting to include asking questions, scrutinising the records of political candidates, demanding accountability and making informed electoral choices.
He cautioned youths against allowing financial inducements to determine their political choices, stressing that the ability of a politician to spend money should not be mistaken for competence or capacity to serve the people. He said, “Do not allow the size of a politician’s pocket to determine the size of your future.”
The NDC chieftain urged young people to look beyond campaign handouts and political theatrics by examining the track records, character, vision and competence of candidates before supporting them. He maintained that democracy would be strengthened when citizens elect leaders based on their values, capacity, vision and record of service rather than temporary material benefits offered during election campaigns.
Barr. Ekwueme further charged the youths of Anambra South to take an active role in shaping the political future of the district by demanding credible leadership and accountable representation. He stressed that the future of Anambra South should not be determined by the highest bidder, but by the collective choices of its people, particularly the younger generation.
He wished the youths a happy International Youth Day and called on them to use their voices and participation to promote a more accountable and people-oriented democracy.