2027: ADC candidate urges youths to embrace peace, civility

Mr Owolabi Bello, African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Lagos West Senatorial District, has urged Nigerian youths to conduct themselves peacefully, responsibly before, during and after the 2027 general election.

Bello made the appeal in an interview with our correspondent, on Wednesday in Lagos.

He said that youths remained the backbone of Nigeria’s democracy and should therefore resist every attempt by to use them as instruments of violence, intimidation or electoral malpractice.

“The future of our nation belongs to the youths. They must therefore conduct themselves peacefully, politely and responsibly before, during and after the elections.

“Violence has never produced progress or sustainable development, ” he said.

Bello added that peaceful participation in the electoral process would strengthen democratic institutions and promote public confidence in the outcome of elections.

“Every eligible youth should obtain a Permanent Voter Card (PVC), participate actively in the electoral process and vote according to their conscience without fear, intimidation or inducement,” he said.

According to him, elections should be viewed as a contest of ideas, competence and credible leadership rather than a do-or-die affair.

“Political differences should never divide families, friends or communities. We must learn to tolerate opposing views because democracy thrives where there is mutual respect and healthy competition, ” he said.

Bello said that security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties and other stakeholders also had critical roles to play in ensuring peaceful, free, fair and credible elections across the country.

“All stakeholders must discharge their responsibilities professionally and impartially to guarantee public confidence in the electoral process.

“A credible election is beneficial to everyone, irrespective of political affiliation, ” he said.

The candidate urged political parties to educate their supporters on issue-based campaigns and discourage hate speech, misinformation and other acts capable of inciting violence.

” Campaigns should focus on programmes and policies that will improve the lives of Nigerians instead of personal attacks, ethnic sentiments or religious divisions. ” he said.

He also encouraged stakeholders to continue sensitising young people on the importance of peaceful and responsible citizenship.