As the 2027 general elections approach, a call has been made to Nigerian youths to actively participate in the democratic process. Hon. John Ademola Akano, a Lagos State House of Assembly Aspirant for Eti-Osa Constituency I, has emphasized the importance of youth participation in the electoral process. He noted that the future of Nigeria's democracy depends on the active engagement of young people.
For too long, many young Nigerians have expressed concerns about governance, leadership, employment, education, security, infrastructure, and the future of their communities. However, Akano stressed that complaints are only a starting point, and that democracy provides a more powerful tool - the opportunity for citizens to participate directly in determining who represents them. He encouraged eligible young Nigerians to register to vote and possess the required voter credentials.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has identified declining voter turnout as a major challenge to democratic participation. Akano urged young people to take voter registration and voter-status verification seriously, and to follow official INEC announcements to verify their registration details. He also emphasized the importance of understanding the procedures governing the election.
Akano believes that democracy should not be limited to social media conversations, street complaints, or occasional protests. He argued that citizens can participate in the democratic process through voter registration, public engagement, community organizing, monitoring the electoral process, holding elected officials accountable, and casting their votes. He encouraged young people to register, verify their registration, get informed, participate, vote, and hold leadership accountable.
The 2027 elections are scheduled to take place on January 16, 2027, for the Presidential and House of Assembly elections, and February 6, 2027, for the Governorship and State House of Assembly elections. Akano emphasized that there is no reason for eligible young Nigerians to remain politically indifferent, given the impact that government decisions have on their education, jobs, businesses, and communities.
As a young political aspirant, Akano believes that the democratic process must remain peaceful, lawful, and participatory. He urged young people to debate issues, question policies, and examine the records and programs of those seeking public office. He also emphasized the importance of peaceful participation and making informed choices at the ballot box.
Akano's message to the youths of Eti-Osa Constituency I is to take responsibility for the democratic process through which leadership is chosen. He encouraged them to demonstrate that political participation is not just about demanding change, but also about taking ownership of the process. He urged them not to surrender their civic responsibility and to participate actively in the 2027 general elections.
Key points
- The 2027 general elections are scheduled to take place on January 16 and February 6, 2027.
- Hon. John Ademola Akano urges Nigerian youths to participate in the electoral process.
- The future of Nigeria's democracy depends on the active engagement of young people.
