By Peter Ogege
The political atmosphere in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State came alive on Sunday as members of the Action Youths for Sustainable Development (AYSD), in collaboration with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), staged a massive solidarity rally in support of former NANS President, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, following his official declaration to contest for the Ethiope Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The gathering which held in Kokori, attracted youths, students, community leaders, women groups, and party faithful, was marked by chants, music, and displays of support for the youthful aspirant whom many described as a symbol of a new generation of leadership.
Speaking during the declaration ceremony, Comrade Lucky Emonefe said his decision to join the race was borne out of a genuine desire to provide purposeful representation and bring sustainable development to the people of Ethiope Federal Constituency.
According to him, the constituency deserves a vibrant and people-oriented representative who understands the challenges confronting the youths, women, and the grassroots.
“This is not just about politics; it is about service, inclusion, and creating opportunities for our people,” Emonefe stated. “Having garnered experience from student unionism and public engagement over the years, I am prepared to bring quality representation, effective lawmaking, and developmental initiatives that will positively impact our people.”
The former student leader stressed that the time had come for young people to take their rightful place in governance and leadership, noting that the energy, creativity, and resilience of the youth population remain critical to national development.
“The future belongs to the youths, and we must begin to actively shape it by participating in governance. I am stepping forward because I believe our constituency deserves fresh ideas, accessible leadership, and a representative who will always put the people first,” he added.
Emonefe further assured constituents that if elected, he would prioritize youth empowerment, women inclusion, education, infrastructural development, and employment opportunities across the federal constituency.
He also pledged to work in synergy with the Delta State Government under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to attract democratic dividends and advance development in the area.
“I will collaborate with relevant stakeholders and the state government to ensure our communities benefit from impactful projects and empowerment programmes. Our people deserve visible and measurable progress,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Convener of Action Youths for Sustainable Development (AYSD), Comrade Joel Edas, described Emonefe as a tested and trusted leader whose track record in student activism and leadership positions him as the right candidate for the job.
Edas noted that Emonefe’s emergence has rekindled hope among young people across the constituency who are eager to see competent and visionary leadership emerge.
“Comrade Lucky Emonefe is a square peg in a square hole. Having served at the highest level of NANS, he possesses the experience, courage, and leadership capacity needed to represent the people effectively,” Edas stated.
He reaffirmed AYSD’s commitment to mobilizing support for the APC aspirant, emphasizing that the group remains dedicated to promoting youth participation in governance and encouraging credible young leaders to seek elective positions.
“AYSD will continue to champion the cause of youth inclusiveness in politics. We are fully committed to supporting Comrade Lucky Emonefe because we believe he represents the aspirations of the younger generation,” he added.
The solidarity event also witnessed goodwill messages from youth leaders, APC supporters, and student activists who praised Emonefe’s leadership qualities and called on constituents to rally behind his ambition.
Meanwhile, Comrade Lucky Emonefe had earlier obtained his nomination and expression of interest forms at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja. He was subsequently screened and cleared by the party’s screening committee on Saturday, paving the way for his participation in the forthcoming party processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political observers say Emonefe’s entrance into the race may further energize youth participation in the constituency’s political landscape, especially among first-time voters and grassroots mobilizers eager for generational change.
