The Arewa Youth Forum (AYF) has called on Nigerian youths, particularly those in the north, to vote with their conscience in the 2027 general elections. This advice was contained in a communique issued after an expanded emergency meeting of its national executive and state chairmen held at the Arewa House, Kaduna. The meeting aimed to review the state of the nation and chart a course for youth participation in the upcoming elections. The AYF emphasized the need for informed decision-making in the electoral process.
The AYF highlighted the worsening insecurity across the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions, as well as other parts of the country. This has resulted in the displacement of communities and loss of lives. The forum noted that economic activities have been crippled, and farming, a significant source of livelihood, has become a death trap. Additionally, schools are no longer safe, further exacerbating the plight of the people. The situation has created a sense of fear and uncertainty.
The youth body attributed the current economic challenges to the administration's economic reforms, which have led to high inflation, rising cost of living, and mass unemployment. The AYF also expressed concern over the state of electricity supply, stating that power has become more expensive and less available despite promises. This has negatively impacted young people operating businesses such as barbing salons, welding shops, cold rooms, and ICT hubs. The forum urged for a comprehensive overhaul of the power sector.
The AYF called for comprehensive reforms in the education sector, citing the need for improvement in the quality of education. The forum also expressed concern about the pressure on the healthcare system, which is struggling to meet the needs of the population. The AYF emphasized that bad governance, poverty, and insecurity are common challenges that require collective action. The forum urged youths to work together to address these issues.
As part of its resolutions, the AYF urged youths not to allow themselves to be divided along tribal, religious, or political party lines. The forum stressed that obtaining Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) is crucial for participating in the electoral process. The AYF also called on youths to reject vote-selling and protect their votes from polling units to collation centres. This, it said, would ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
The AYF's national director of publicity, Bello Abdulhamid, signed the communique. The forum's resolutions reflect the concerns and aspirations of Nigerian youths, particularly those in the north. The AYF's call for informed and responsible voting is seen as a step towards promoting democratic participation and good governance. The forum's emphasis on collective action and youth engagement is expected to resonate with young people across the country.
The 2027 general elections are expected to be a critical moment in Nigeria's democratic journey. The AYF's advice to vote with conscience is likely to influence the decisions of many young voters. The forum's commitment to promoting democratic values and good governance is commendable. As the electoral process approaches, the AYF's resolutions are expected to contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry.
Key points
- The Arewa Youth Forum has urged Nigerian youths to vote with their conscience in the 2027 general elections.
- The forum cited insecurity and economic hardship as key concerns that need to be addressed through informed decision-making.
- The AYF emphasized the need for comprehensive reforms in the education and power sectors to address the challenges facing the country.
