Benue youths caution lawmaker over reckless statement
Benue youths under the aegis of Igede Youths Council, IYC, have cautioned member representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency of Benue State, David Ogewu, over ludicrous comments against Igede youths.
The group expressed profound dissatisfaction with Ogewu over alleged contemptuous labeling of Igede youths as “fools” for voicing their grievances regarding the abject neglect of the Otukpo-Oju section of the Loko-Oweto-Oju-Yahe Federal road.
The Igede youth group said the statement by Ogewu is not only an affront to their dignity but a gross misrepresentation of the spirit and resilience of the Igede people the world over.
This was contained in statement on Wednesday, by the President of Igede Youth Council, Andyson Iji Egbodo and the Secretary, Smith Akoko.
The statement read in parts, ‘With deep disappointment, we note Mr Ogewu’s failure to recognize the legitimate concerns of his constituents.
‘Our demand for infrastructural development is certainly not one of foolishness, so the dismissive language used by Mr Ogewu reveals a concerning lack of respect for the very youths who gave him a chance in the 2023 election.
“We have realized the mistake and now know we really never knew him.
“On this note, we categorically reject this derogatory rhetoric and call upon every Igede youth to exercise their civic duty and obtain their voter cards, as we have a crucial task ahead of us: to remove David Ogewu from the National Assembly and replace him with a representative whose character reflects the true values of an Igede man, one with humility, respect, and genuine concern for his constituents. ”
The youth group claimed they were fighting for what rightfully belongs to the Igede people and will not be silenced.
“We will continue to advocate for our rights and demands through every lawful means available to us, including peaceful protests. The neglect of our roads and infrastructure cannot be ignored, and we will not rest until our voices are heard and our needs addressed. “