The Ibusa Youth Council (IYC) has strongly condemned the recent installation of an interim youth leadership in the community, describing it as a direct violation of court orders and a threat to peace and stability in Ibusa.
In a statement signed by the Secretary General of the Council, Comrade Olimmah Vincent, the group alleged that the interim executive was imposed by the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, in collaboration with the Palace of the Obuzor of Ibusa.
The IYC described the move as a deliberate disregard for the judiciary and a provocative act capable of inciting unrest among the youth.
“This interim leadership was selected during a private meeting at the Obuzor’s Palace, which excluded duly recognized youth representatives,” the statement read. “It included individuals who are not indigenes of Ibusa, as well as known cult members and loyalists of the local government chairman. This action violates our traditions, legal norms, and community peace.”
The Council emphasized that multiple court injunctions had clearly prohibited the appointment or recognition of any youth leadership body pending the resolution of ongoing legal proceedings. It said the installation amounted to both contempt of court and misuse of traditional and political authority.
The IYC also expressed disappointment over the presence of some respected community elders at the meeting, stating that their involvement undermines public confidence in traditional institutions and could lead to long-term divisions among future generations.
The youth body warned that the imposition of a parallel leadership structure has heightened tensions within the community and accused the LGA Chairman of deliberately seeking to destabilize Ibusa for political gain.
“We reject this process in its entirety,” said Comrade Vincent. “Should there be any breakdown of law and order, the responsibility will rest solely on those who initiated and supported this unlawful act. We will use all legal and constitutional means to defend the legitimate process.”
The Council called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Inspector General of Police, and the Director General of the Department of State Services to investigate the situation, enforce existing court orders, and hold accountable those responsible for what it described as an illegal and destabilizing move.
The IYC also urged civil society organizations, human rights groups, and other stakeholders in Delta State to speak out against what they referred to as an emerging pattern of authoritarianism and imposition at the local level.
“This issue goes beyond youth politics,” the statement concluded. “It concerns respect for the rule of law, the integrity of our traditional systems, and the future security of our community. This act must not be allowed to stand.”
