The National Youth Council of Nigeria, South-East Zone, has warned politicians against electoral manipulation ahead of the 2027 elections, urging youths to use their Permanent Voter Cards to reject incompetent leaders.
The NYCN South-East Vice-President, Dr Atigwe Ifeanyi, stated this on Monday during a press briefing in Enugu on lessons from the recent Osun governorship election and preparations for the 2027 polls.
While urging young Nigerians across the five states to participate actively in the electoral process and make informed choices based on candidates’ competence, character and track record, Ifeanyi noted that the Osun election had demonstrated the importance of allowing voters to freely determine who governs them through credible elections.
He commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for its efforts and praised President Bola Tinubu for allowing democratic institutions to function without undue interference from the Presidency.
He warned politicians against relying on electoral manipulation to secure political power.
“The era where politicians rely on electoral manipulation, intimidation, inducement or rigging to secure political power must come to an end.
“Today, we are saying clearly that the people are watching and the youths are also watching, as the era of taking the people’s mandate for granted is over,” he said.
The NYCN leader urged politicians seeking elective offices to present their records before the electorate and allow voters to assess their performance.
“Every politician seeking public office must present his or her scorecard before the electorate. Let the people examine what you have achieved, what you have failed to achieve, and what you intend to do differently,” he said.
Ifeanyi called on youths in Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states to obtain, protect and use their PVCs wisely.
He announced that the council would commence grassroots advocacy under its “Operation Use Your PVC Well” campaign to educate young voters on their political rights and responsibilities.
