The Executive Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State, Dr. Onengiyeofori George, has dissolved the Electoral Committee constituted to conduct the Krakrama youth elections, following allegations of bias and compromised integrity.
According to a press release, issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the council, Mrs. Winnie Morganson, Dr. George announced the decision in Buguma, the council headquarters, stating that it was based on “irrefutable evidence of vested interest and predilection” against members of the committee set up by the outgoing youth leadership.
He said the action became necessary after receiving complaints from aspirants and key stakeholders, who accused the committee chairman of lacking the neutrality required to conduct a credible election.
The allegations, according to the council boss, included claims of close personal relationships between the committee chairman and some aspirants, as well as his reported involvement in fundraising activities for one of the candidates—actions widely considered a violation of electoral ethics.
“As a government, we cannot allow any process that undermines fairness, transparency and the confidence of the people to continue,” George said.
He directed that all activities carried out by the dissolved committee, including the sale of nomination forms and clearance of aspirants, be nullified with immediate effect.
The chairman further instructed the youth leadership to constitute a new electoral committee within one week, stressing that members of the new body must be individuals of proven integrity capable of delivering a free, fair and transparent electoral process.
He also mandated the reconstituted committee to report to his office upon completion of its assignment.
Reacting to the development, the Amayanabo of Krakrama commended the council chairman for what he described as a timely intervention, noting that it would restore confidence in the electoral process.
The monarch urged youths in the community to remain peaceful and conduct themselves responsibly, emphasizing the need to prioritise the overall interest and stability of Krakrama.
The dissolution marks a significant step in addressing concerns over the credibility of the planned youth elections, as stakeholders look forward to a more transparent process.
