City Boy Movement Coordinator Debunks Low Turnout Claims in Edo
The Edo State Coordinator of the City Boy Movement, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, has rejected claims of low attendance at the group’s recent empowerment programme in Benin City.
Iyamu said the event was intentionally limited to selected beneficiaries, noting that the narrative of poor turnout does not reflect the reality of the programme.
Limited Attendance Was Planned
Addressing participants during the distribution of items, Iyamu explained that only 6,000 beneficiaries were invited. He said this made it impossible to fill the 14,000-capacity Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
He stressed that the City Boy Movement low turnout Edo narrative is misleading, as attendance was controlled for safety reasons.
Safety Concerns Influenced Decision
Iyamu said organisers restricted the number of attendees to prevent overcrowding and possible stampede.
He referenced a previous incident in Owerri, Imo State, as a cautionary example. According to him, the decision ensured a safer and more organised process.
Programme Covers South-South Beneficiaries
The coordinator noted that the empowerment programme extended beyond Edo State.
He said about 2,000 beneficiaries were selected from the 18 local government areas in Edo, while others from Delta, Rivers and Bayelsa states had already received their items.
He added that the distribution process would continue in phases to ensure all beneficiaries receive support.
Items Distributed to Beneficiaries
Items distributed included business and mobility support tools aimed at improving livelihoods.
These items included deep freezers, sewing machines, buses, tricycles, laptops, hairdressing kits and wheelchairs.
A beneficiary, Emmanuel Bawa, expressed appreciation and said the support would help improve his economic situation.
Initiative Not Politically Motivated
Iyamu maintained that the programme was not driven by political considerations.
He said beneficiaries were selected across different political affiliations, including persons living with disabilities.
He reiterated that the City Boy Movement low turnout Edo claims were unfounded and do not reflect the objectives of the initiative.
Government Officials Highlight Youth Engagement
Earlier, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the initiative aims to connect leadership with young Nigerians.
Speaking during the South-South tour in Benin City, he described the programme as a platform to mobilise and inspire youths.
The tour, led by Seyi Tinubu alongside other officials, is expected to engage young people across the region.