Comrade Francis Iwedike Osedume has emerged as the new president of the Congress of Onicha Ugbo Youths, a community in Aniocha North local government area of Delta State.
Osedume, who contested alongside Emenem Okwechi Daniel, secured a decisive victory with 920 votes, while Okwechi garnered 28 votes.
In an interview with Emerald News, Osedume attributed his overwhelming support to the trust the youths have in his leadership and his ability to engage the community.
He emphasized that the previous administration of Comrade Ike Okoh ended in 2023, but the election could not be held for almost a year.
However, in January 2025, the youth decided it was time to conduct the election and elect a new president.
Osedume assured that his administration would prioritize youth empowerment, collaborating with prominent figures in the community to secure opportunities and improve living conditions for the youths.
He highlighted his commitment to working with privileged individuals to help qualified youths find gainful employment and to influence the government for the development of Onicha Ugbo.
Describing the election as a “brotherly affair,” Osedume noted that he and his opponent, Francis Okwechi, embraced each other after the result, symbolizing unity and camaraderie.
Osedume pledged that his presidency, which will last for two years, would be inclusive, ensuring that no youth is left behind in community affairs.
He also used the opportunity to advise youths involved in drugs and cultism to abandon such harmful practices, stressing that they are detrimental to personal and communal success.
He called on all community members to cooperate with the government to foster peace and progress in Onicha Ugbo.