By Our Correspondent in Abuja
A months-long leadership tussle in the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Anambra State Chapter has ended, following a landmark judgment by the Election Petition Committee (EPC).
The Committee, on Thursday, nullified the outcome of the State Congress election held on June 26, 2026 in Awka. At that congress, Mr. Ikechukwu Onuorah was earlier declared winner of the office of State Chairman.
After reviewing the petition and evidence presented, the Tribunal set aside the result in its entirety. It held that the earlier declaration could not stand in law.
Consequently, the Committee declared Barr. Nonso Henry Nwaebili, Esq. as the duly elected State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Anambra State Chapter.
Barr. Nwaebili is a legal practitioner, a former Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor of Anambra State, and a respected voice among youth leaders in the state.
Beyond the declaration, the Committee directed that a Certificate of Return be issued immediately to Barr. Nwaebili to enable him to assume office without delay.
The directive is expected to allow the new chairman to commence the discharge of his responsibilities and stabilize leadership of the Council in Anambra.
Elders and stakeholders of the council say the judgment should bring closure to the dispute arising from the June 26 congress and restore confidence in the Council’s internal democratic processes.
Supporters who gathered after the ruling described it as a triumph of justice and the rule of law. They expressed optimism that Barr. Nwaebili’s emergence would usher in an era of inclusive, accountable, and visionary leadership for youths across the 21 local government areas.
Observers note the decision aligns with growing advocacy for youth inclusiveness and effective representation in youth organizations. They referenced the recent resolution of the Anambra State House of Assembly, which urged youth bodies in the state to strictly comply with the statutory 35-year age limit for leadership positions.
The lawmakers argued that adherence to the age limit would create real opportunities for younger citizens to participate in leadership and governance. Stakeholders believe the tribunal’s verdict will also strengthen the implementation of youth-focused policies in the state and complement the Anambra State Government’s Solution Agenda, particularly in areas of youth empowerment, leadership development, innovation, and community engagement.
The Committee said its judgment takes immediate effect upon issuance of the Certificate of Return and implementation by the appropriate organs of the National Youth Council of Nigeria.
