Tension is rising ahead of the much-anticipated General Congress Meeting of the Ekpeye Youths Congress (EYC), scheduled to hold on Sunday, 11th May, 2025, at Ogbele Primary School, Ogbele Town, Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The announcement was made in an official circular signed by the Secretary General of EYC, Snr. Comr. Wilfred Chiemele, under the directive of the President General, Snr. Comr. Justice Ewoh, Ph.D.
While preparations are in full swing, the event has not been without controversy. Reports have emerged of deliberate attempts by certain individuals to discredit and possibly derail the meeting due to its location—Ogbele Town.
In response to these developments, Amb. Emeni Ibe, a prominent socio-cultural leader and respected native of Ogbele Community, has spoken out in defence of the decision.
Ibe, who is well-known for his advocacy for youth inclusion, grassroots development, and regional unity, described the congress as a major win for both the EYC and the people of Ogbele.
“Hosting the EYC Congress in Ogbele is not just symbolic—it is historically significant,” Ibe declared. “Ogbele is one of the first Ekpeye communities to witness substantial development, and bringing the Congress here reflects the town’s continued relevance in our socio-political journey.”
Amb. Ibe expressed concern over what he described as sabotage attempts by individuals who “do not value the progress of Ogbele Town”. He called on such persons to abandon divisive tendencies and embrace the congress as a collective opportunity for dialogue, empowerment, and development.
“Those working behind the scenes to frustrate this noble effort are doing so at the expense of unity and progress,” Ibe said.
“This meeting would have been a platform for us to reflect on our challenges, propose solutions, and galvanize our youth toward a better Ekpeye Nation. If not this pleasure to stop the Congress, Ogbele Community belong to all of us and not mainly owned by any of individuals as claimed.”
Community leaders, youth stakeholders, traditional representatives, and members of the public are expected to be in attendance.