By Francis Nansak,Lafia
Going forward and ahead of the much expected 2023 general elections in the country,youths from all works of life have been admonished and reminded of their roles ,which is capable of producing good leaders.
A fact was also established that youths play very significant role in the electoral processes.
Special Adviser to Governor,Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state on Urban Development, chief Samuel Akala Gajere, averred that youth have energy ,courage and the will to drive electoral process.
Samuel Akala is the immediate past chairman ,Karu Local Government Area in the state.He made his position known during a 2023 Election Submit in Lafia on Monday,while presenting a paper titled, “The Role of Youth in Ensuring Peaceful Campaign and Election”.
He said election is a fundamental tenant of democracy,while the campaign is a fundamental activity in an electoral process ,amidst uncertainties and anxieties.
According to him” The growing concern to many observers is the role expected of our teeming youth,who are often used in perpetrating electoral fraud and violence.But with the present realities ,the role of the youth need to be re-examined in the light of the threat to our nation-hood,posed by heightened tension and the desperation of some political actors.
“Also given our history of electoral violence and irregularities,there is a need to increase awareness among young people to defend the electoral process,rather than destroy it” He advised.
Honorable Akala further pointed out that the vulnerability and volatile nature of Nigeria youths have exposed them to manipulations by the political class who use money to entice them for cheap ethno-religious and primordial sentiments, that instigates politics violence.
He warned that this must not be allowed to reoccur,before,during and after the coming election.He called on youths to note that they are central to the emergence of any elected office holder ” meaning the youth possess enormous power in determining who leads the country,a state and the local government council.
” This electoral season presents young people with a good opportunity to position themselves for active involvement in political administration,however ,if the majority oc young people do not show discipline and maturity,they risk not being considered for political position.Campaign No be Fight.Election No be War” Akala posited..
