28-Year-Old ADC Candidate Says It’s Time For A New Generation To Take Centre Stage
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Esan Central Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, 28-year-old Hon. George Washington Egbele, has called for greater youth participation in governance, saying the time has come for a new generation to take a more active role in shaping the future of the constituency.
Egbele, who is campaigning on an agenda centred on people-oriented representation, youth empowerment and infrastructural development, said democracy should be measured by its impact on the daily lives of citizens and not merely by the celebration of elections.
According to him, the people of Esan Central deserve representation that is accessible, accountable and responsive to their needs, with elected representatives remaining connected to the grassroots after elections.
He said his ambition is driven by the belief that the dividends of democracy should be reflected in improved infrastructure, greater economic opportunities for young people and responsive legislative representation.
Youth Must Move From The Audience To The Table
The ADC candidate identified youth empowerment as a key component of his agenda, arguing that young people should not be treated merely as campaign crowds or electoral statistics.
He said, if elected, he would support initiatives focused on skills development, entrepreneurship, youth empowerment and economic opportunities, stressing that investing in young people is essential to the development of communities.
“Our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow. They are partners in building the future today,” Egbele said.
On infrastructure, he said development initiatives should be based on the actual needs of communities and should focus on projects capable of improving living conditions, supporting economic activities and opening up opportunities for residents.
‘Democracy Must Be Felt’
Egbele said political representation should ultimately be judged by its impact on the people.
“Democracy must be felt, not merely celebrated. Our people deserve representation that listens, speaks for them and works relentlessly to turn their needs into priorities,” he said.
He added that occupying a legislative seat should not be regarded merely as a political privilege, but as a responsibility entrusted to an elected representative by the people.
A Generational Message
At 28, Egbele said his candidacy represents his belief that young Nigerians should take greater responsibility for the direction of governance and the development of their communities.
“Leadership is not about age; it is about responsibility, vision and the willingness to serve,” he said.
Egbele said his campaign is focused on people-centred representation, accountable governance and a renewed commitment to the development of Esan Central.
He further assured the electorate that, if entrusted with their mandate, he would regard the position as a responsibility to serve rather than a personal possession.
“The mandate belongs to the people, and if entrusted to me, I will treat it as a responsibility, not a personal possession,” he said.
