As political campaigns progress, one thing that is unmistakable is the increased participation of young Nigerians in the political process.
Rallies, led by youths, are being held regularly in support of candidates which suggest that young people are moving away from being just active on the social media to organizing to force a change in society.
In pictures and videos posted on social media almost on a daily basis, thousands of youths and other Nigerians are seen rooting for their preferred candidates.
It is also noteworthy that during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), so many youths obtained voter cards and many have shown interest in voting during the elections in 2023.
The introduction of the electronic transmission of results has also raised people’s confidence in the credibility of the electoral process and youths seem to have embraced democracy as their preferred vehicle for change.
So, if youths continue to show this same level of interest up to the election day, there will be a strong possibility for upsets at the presidential and other elections. The reality is that the political game is changing and sharing money in voting queues may not be enough to ‘purchase’ victory.’
Youths seem to be asking for a better society and a better deal and the “old order” to some extent still feel that it will be business as usual. However, with unemployment at an all-time high level and poverty biting hard, it is crystal clear that post-Buhari, the country needs to make a lot of adjustments for stability. And that looks like the message youths are passing—that change is imperative.
It is expected that the campaigns will be mainly about burning issues that are dear to the hearts of Nigerians. Many Nigerians have been calling for political restructuring as a panacea for the steep descent that the country is experiencing in all ramifications. It is also obvious that the Nigerian economy is comatose and production of crude oil that is the mainstay of the economy is dwindling by the day.
Thus, the economy also needs to be restructured and reenergized for the progress of the country and the citizens. Insecurity and solutions also need to be adequately addressed by the presidential candidates.
The youth seem to be ready for change but are the politicians ready? Time will tell!
Written by TONY OKAFOR
Comments are closed for this post.