2027: SOUTH-EAST YOUTHS VOW TO REJECT INCOMPETENT LEADERS

Youths in the South-East have vowed to use their Permanent Voter Cards to reject leaders they consider incompetent in the 2027 general elections.

The National Youth Council of Nigeria, South-East Zone, made the position known during a press briefing in Enugu on Monday, where it discussed lessons from the recent Osun governorship election and preparations for the 2027 polls.

The NYCN South-East Vice-President, Dr Atigwe Ifeanyi, urged young people to take an active role in the electoral process and make informed choices at the polls.

He warned politicians against relying on electoral manipulation, intimidation, inducement, or rigging to secure political power.

According to him, the era of manipulating elections should end, with voters empowered to determine their leaders through credible and transparent elections.

Ifeanyi also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for its efforts and urged stakeholders to support measures that would strengthen the electoral process.

He encouraged youths to register, collect their PVCs, and participate actively in elections rather than remaining on the sidelines.

The group said young Nigerians have an important role to play in determining the quality of leadership at the federal, state, and local government levels.

It urged political parties and candidates to focus on competence, accountability, development, and policies that address the concerns of citizens.

The youth leaders also called on security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that voters can participate in elections without intimidation or interference.

They maintained that credible elections would give citizens greater confidence in the democratic process and ensure that elected officials are accountable to the people.

The group urged South-East youths to remain politically conscious and use their votes responsibly during the 2027 elections.