By Ajuwa Victor
The Otu-Odogwu clan of Ibusa in Delta State has spoken out strongly, saying the Ibusa Youths Council should not be used for political games or selfish interests. The Ibusa Youths Council is a group formed to speak up for the youths and promote development in the Ibusa community — the largest in Oshimili North Local Government Area.
Recently, there has been conflict and confusion around the Youth Council’s election, which has been postponed due to disagreements and interference from powerful people, including the Palace of Obuzor and the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government.
One of the main problems is that the list of those meant to run the election was allegedly changed without agreement. Also, an Interim Youth Committee was reportedly set up by the palace, which many people believe goes against the rules in the Youth Council’s constitution.
Otu-Odogwu Takes Action
In a meeting held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, elders and key figures from Otu-Odogwu came together to find a peaceful way forward. They agreed that the Interim Youth Committee created by the palace is not acceptable and does not follow the constitution of the Youth Council.
Since the position of President of the Youth Council is supposed to go to someone from Otu-Odogwu this time, the clan said it will now organize a free and fair election between its three sons who are interested in the role. This way, the winner will be chosen in a way that respects the rules and ensures peace.
Leaders Support Peaceful Resolution
Several respected community leaders attended the meeting and gave their support:
- High Chief Celestine Okafor, the Ikwele of Ibusa, said the meeting shows that peace is possible and that he fully supports Otu-Odogwu’s decision to choose one of their own as a consensus candidate.
- Chief Daddy Okeleke, the Mgboko of Ibusa, said committees have been set up to handle the issues. He added that everyone at the meeting agreed to work for peace.
- Sir Gilbert Okonji, one of the meeting’s organizers, explained that the conflict mostly involved three major groups in Ibusa: Otu Uwolo, Otu Iyase, and Otu-Odogwu. He said the meeting was called to stop the fighting and make sure the election goes smoothly.
Youths Want Transparency and Order
Youth member Emeke Okolo, who supports one of the candidates, said the problem has caused too much tension, but now that the elders have stepped in, there’s hope that peace will return. He said the time has come for the Youth Council to act responsibly and follow due process in its elections.
