The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has called on the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) to uphold its 35 percent affirmative action policy by presenting Barrister Ndidi Eucharia Iwule as the party’s candidate for the Okigwe North Federal Constituency.
The group said the outcome of the party’s primary process in the constituency demonstrated strong grassroots support for Iwule, describing her emergence as the preferred choice of party members and supporters across the area.
In a statement jointly signed by COSEYL President General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Okey Nwaoru, the organization said the level of support witnessed during the primary was a clear indication of the confidence many members have in Iwule’s leadership potential.
According to the youth body, the turnout in support of the legal practitioner was spontaneous and reflected the electorate’s desire for effective representation, accessibility, competence, and a commitment to the welfare of constituents.
“This is a defining moment for the NDC to prove its commitment to gender inclusion, women empowerment, and participatory democracy,” the statement said. “The party must seize this opportunity to reward merit, loyalty, competence, and popular acceptance.”
COSEYL described Iwule as a seasoned legal practitioner with the academic background, political experience, and grassroots connection necessary to provide quality representation for the people of Okigwe North. The group argued that overlooking the level of support she enjoys could undermine the aspirations of party faithful in the constituency.
The youth organization further urged the NDC leadership to align its decisions with its publicly declared commitment to increasing women’s participation in politics, insisting that the party has an opportunity to demonstrate leadership in promoting gender inclusion.
“History will remember those who stood on the side of justice, fairness, and democratic principles,” the statement added. “The voice of the people must prevail. The mandate of the people must be respected. The time for Barrister Ndidi Eucharia Iwule is now.”
The NDC is yet to officially announce its candidate for the Okigwe North Federal Constituency ahead of the forthcoming federal legislative elections. However, party officials have consistently maintained that the 35 percent affirmative action policy for women remains a key part of the party’s internal framework.
COSEYL reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for equity, justice, good governance, and the emergence of credible leaders capable of delivering meaningful democratic dividends to the people.
