During an engagement session held by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with various youth groups in Edo State, the emphasis on the importance of youths avoiding involvement in electoral misconduct during the upcoming governorship election on September 21st was reiterated.
The discussions revolved around the critical roles that youths play in electoral processes, not just within the state, but across the entire country.
Speaking at the event in Benin City on Tuesday, all speakers expressed their collective dismay at the tendency of youths to engage in electoral malpractices nationwide.
Representing the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Anubbum Onuoha, Emmanuel Efeturhi Ogbodu, the Administrative Secretary of the Edo office of INEC, encouraged youths to participate actively in the forthcoming governorship election.
He urged the youths to engage positively in the gubernatorial election while also taking part in national protests against hunger and the #EndBadGovernance movement in the state.
The one-day session was organized by INEC to motivate youths to take part in the electoral process, with a focus on inclusivity, especially involving marginalized groups like the youth.
Addressing the youths, Onuoha highlighted the commission’s commitment to involving the youth demographic in public decision-making, acknowledging their significant role in advancing democracy in the nation.
During his goodwill message, Mr. Osahon Woghiren, the Edo State Director of NOA, criticized the youths for permitting themselves to be manipulated by desperate politicians as political thugs.
He emphasized the negative impact of youths engaging in destructive activities such as destroying electoral materials and being involved in vote-buying schemes.
Woghiren stressed the need for youths to refrain from negative influences, collaborate with INEC, and contribute to the conduct of transparent and credible elections.
Mrs. Ben-Ushie Ifeoma, the NYSC State Director, appealed to youths to resist being utilized for electoral malpractices or as tools in electoral disputes during elections.
She reminded the youth that their votes hold power in shaping a brighter future for themselves and upcoming generations, advising them to align their actions with electoral laws and support candidates who share their values.
Emphasizing the NYSC’s strong partnership with INEC over the past 12 years to ensure successful elections, she encouraged youths to leverage their collective strength to drive positive change and transform the future of Edo State and Nigeria.
Jude Obasanmi, representing various youth groups, advocated for greater opportunities for youths in Nigeria to actively contribute to the promotion of good governance.