Nigeria: Youths warned against electoral manipulation ahead of 2027 polls

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) South-East Zone has issued a stern warning to politicians, urging them to abandon electoral manipulation tactics ahead of the 2027 general elections. The council implored young Nigerians to wield their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) as a tool to reject incompetent leaders and ensure credible governance.

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The era where politicians rely on electoral manipulation, intimidation, inducement or rigging to secure political power must come to an end.

NYCN South-East Vice-President Dr. Atigwe Ifeanyi emphasized the importance of informed decision-making by youths, who should base their choices on candidates' competence, character, and track records. He cited the recent Osun governorship election as an example of how voters can freely determine their leaders through credible processes. Ifeanyi commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its efforts and President Bola Tinubu for allowing democratic institutions to operate without undue presidential interference.

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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.

"The era where politicians rely on electoral manipulation, intimidation, inducement or rigging to secure political power must come to an end," Ifeanyi declared. He stressed that the public and the youth are vigilant, and the time of taking the people's mandate for granted is over. Politicians seeking office must present their performance records, detailing achievements, failures, and future plans, for the electorate to scrutinize.

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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.

The NYCN leader urged youths in Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states to obtain, protect, and use their PVCs wisely. The council plans to launch "Operation Use Your PVC Well," a grassroots advocacy campaign to educate young voters on their political rights and responsibilities. Ifeanyi encouraged voting for candidates who demonstrate accountability, good governance, security, economic opportunities, and infrastructure development, rather than adhering strictly to party lines. He also called on INEC to enhance its processes, technology, transparency, and independence for the upcoming elections.

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Your PVC is not merely a card. It is your instrument of political participation and power to change bad leadership and enthrone good leadership.