Ebonyi NYCN boss, Uchishi dismisses removal rumour, calls for unity 

… Tips Gov. Nwifuru for 2nd term 

By Uchenna Okeh Abakaliki 

The chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ebonyi State Chapter, Douglas Uchishi, on Wednesday dismissed with the wave of the hand, the rumours making the rounds in the state that he was removed from office by suspected aggrieved members.

Uchishi insisted that he is still fully in-charge of the leadership of NYCN in Ebonyi state, adding that he and his Excos was duly elected and remains focused on his legitimate mandate to serve the state’s youths.

Speaking with journalists in Abakaliki, Uchishi described the recent unrest within the Council as “a minor internal misunderstanding” that has since been amicably resolved through stakeholders intervention.

According to him: “There was never any plan to remove me from office. I was duly elected and have a legitimate tenure to serve.

“What happened was that some members expressed grievances which is normal in any organization. Even in marriage, disagreements occur. 

“This was our first internal misunderstanding since our inauguration in May 2024. We have now resolved the matter and moved forward as one,” he said.

The NYCN chairman further harps on the unity of the Council, and however, applauded some stakeholders; the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Richard Idike, and the Chairman of the Advisory Council among others for their prompt intervention to entrench peace and unity amongst the members of NYCN in the state.

Uchishi highlighted the Council’s recent achievements, including its role in preventing the nationwide hunger protests of August 2024 and sustaining an active youth office at the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium Abakaliki.

He noted that under his leadership, the Ebonyi Youth Council had become one of the most vibrant in the country, thanks to consistent government support.

“Before my administration, the Council was almost moribund. Today, it has regained its voice. 

“We now have a working relationship with the state government, and our focus remains on empowering and protecting Ebonyi youths,” he stated.

On the upcoming Anambra governorship election, Uchishi urged Ebonyi youths residing in the state to shun violence and embrace peaceful participation.

“If you have your voter’s card, go to the polls and vote peacefully. Let your voice be heard through the ballot, not through violence,” he advised.

He also expressed concern over security in border communities, disclosing ongoing collaboration with security agencies to safeguard lives and property.

Commending the People’s Charter of Needs policy of Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration, Uchishi lauded the state government’s strides in infrastructure, youth empowerment, and peacebuilding.

“When a government delivers on its promises, the people naturally express support. The youths of Ebonyi are ready to return this administration of Governor Francis ogbonna Nwifuru in 2027,” he declared.

Reaffirming his commitment to youth development, Uchishi emphasized that the Council remains united, proactive, and focused on initiatives that “protect, empower, and uplift Ebonyi youths.”