The Nigerian Youth Congress, NYC, has moved to douse controversy surrounding its recent comments on the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primary in Kwara State, insisting it did not endorse any aspirant and remains committed only to democratic process and institutional integrity.
In a statement signed Friday by National President, Comrade Engr. Jethro Annum, the NYC said media interpretations linking its remarks to support for a particular candidate were inaccurate.
“The Nigerian Youth Congress is a non-partisan youth advocacy organization. We do not endorse candidates in party primaries or elections,” the statement read. “Our intervention was driven by our mandate to promote transparency, inclusion, and confidence in political processes among young Nigerians.”
The Congress clarified that its observations were aimed at strengthening democratic practice, not influencing the outcome of the Kwara APC primary.
“Nothing could be further from the truth than claims that we endorsed any aspirant,” Comrade Annum stated. “Our remarks were made in good faith to encourage continuous improvement in party processes and to foster greater youth participation in politics.”
While maintaining neutrality, the NYC said it firmly believes in upholding lawful processes and the authority of recognized political structures.
“Democracy thrives when stakeholders respect constituted authority and the decisions of legitimate institutions,” the statement noted. “In that regard, we align with the officially recognized structures of the APC in Kwara State and the decisions emanating therefrom. We reaffirm our support for the candidate duly recognized by the party leadership in Kwara.”
The group stressed that its earlier comments were not intended to undermine the APC or question its internal authority.
With political temperatures rising ahead of the 2027 general elections, the NYC urged restraint and dialogue among stakeholders.
“Our overriding interest as a youth-focused organization remains peace, unity, democratic engagement, and good governance,” Comrade Annum said. “We call on all actors within the APC and across the political spectrum to embrace reconciliation and mutual respect in the interest of Kwara State and Nigeria’s democracy.”
The Congress reiterated its commitment to partnering with government, political parties, and civil society to advance youth inclusion and national development.
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