Ebonyi Youths March Against Violence, Demand Good Governance Ahead of 2027 Polls

Youths in Ebonyi state took to the streets of Abakaliki to protest against political violence and intimidation, calling for good governance, accountability and peaceful political engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections. The road walk, organised by Concerned Ebonyi Youth for Democracy, attracted predominantly supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). They demanded political tolerance, responsible leadership and protection of citizens’ democratic rights.

The participants marched from the popular Nkaliki area through the Sperando axis and the Enugu-Abakaliki expressway, displaying placards condemning thuggery and advocating peaceful coexistence and credible elections. Some of the inscriptions read: “Say no to thuggery,” “Ebonyi youths stand for peace, not violence” and “We seek a society where citizens can speak, assemble and live without fear.” The march was a call to action for peaceful and democratic governance.

The National President of Odozi-Obodo Youth Movement, Mr Mark Onu, spoke during the exercise, saying political activities should be anchored on constructive engagement, mutual respect and the collective interest of the people. Onu urged political actors to respect opposing views and shun hostility, intimidation and personal attacks. He stressed that peaceful participation was essential to sustaining democratic governance.

A youth leader, Mr Nnanna Nwangene, condemned political violence, insisting that it had no place in a democratic society. He urged political leaders, supporters and other stakeholders to embrace peaceful conduct before, during and after the 2027 general elections. Nwangene also emphasised accountability, transparency and people-oriented policies as critical to sustainable development.

Nwangene urged elected public office holders to ensure that democratic dividends translate into improved living conditions for citizens. Chief Rostick Eze and Mr Jerry Uhuo, who also spoke, urged youths and political stakeholders to reject thuggery, hate speech and intimidation. They called on residents to support initiatives that promote credible elections, democratic participation, peace and sustainable development in Ebonyi State.

The march was a significant event, demonstrating the commitment of Ebonyi youths to promoting peaceful and democratic governance. The youths are demanding a change in the way politics is conducted in the state, with a focus on accountability and transparency. The event was organised by Concerned Ebonyi Youth for Democracy, a group that seeks to promote democratic values and good governance.

The 2027 general elections are expected to be a significant event in Nigeria, with various political parties and stakeholders vying for power. The Ebonyi youths’ march against violence and demand for good governance is a timely call to action, highlighting the need for peaceful and democratic governance. The youths are taking a proactive approach to promoting democratic values and good governance in Ebonyi State.

Key points

• Ebonyi youths demand good governance, accountability and peaceful political engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
• The march was organised by Concerned Ebonyi Youth for Democracy, a group that seeks to promote democratic values and good governance.
• The youths are calling for political tolerance, responsible leadership and protection of citizens’ democratic rights.