TRUE DEFENDER OF DEMOCRACY”: SOUTHEAST YOUTHS HAIL ORJI KALU OVER ELECTORAL REFORM VICTORY*
The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has extolled Senator Orji Uzor Kalu for what it described as a “visionary and patriotic” role in securing the passage of the amended Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Act, which mandates electronic transmission of election results.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the President General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, the apex sociopolitical youth group in the Southeast commended the former Abia governor for his passionate advocacy during the Senate’s emergency plenary, describing his intervention as a defining moment for electoral integrity in Nigeria.
Comrade Ibem, noted that Senator Kalu’s balanced legislative approach championing technological innovation while safeguarding the voting rights of citizens in network-underserved areas demonstrated exceptional statesmanship.
“Senator Kalu has once again proven that he is not just a leader for his constituency, but a statesman for all Nigerians. His stance reflects a deep understanding of our nation’s diversity and ensures that no citizen is disenfranchised on the basis of geography,” Ibem said.
The group further described Kalu as a “true defender of democracy,” urging other lawmakers and political stakeholders to emulate his commitment to reforms that restore public confidence in the electoral system.
COSEYL also called on the National Assembly and relevant agencies to accelerate investment in electoral infrastructure, training, and public sensitisation to ensure seamless implementation of the new provision.
“We stand in solidarity with Senator Kalu’s vision of technological integrity in elections. This is a victory for every Nigerian who believes that their vote must count,” the statement added.
COSEYL’s commendation reflects the growing youth endorsement of legislative action of Kalu primarily in Abia North and National Assembly driving democratic consolidation ahead of the 2027 general elections.