The Youth Advancement Initiative (YAI), Osun State Chapter, has called on young people across the state to remain actively engaged in the democratic process and participate peacefully in the forthcoming Osun State governorship election.
The call was made during a virtual symposium organised by the organisation with the theme “Voters Education and Participation”, and the topic “August 15 Decides: Osun Youths and the Power of One Vote.”
The symposium brought together youth leaders, political stakeholders and young people to discuss voter participation, political intimidation, electoral security and the importance of making informed choices at the polls.
The session was moderated by Comr. Adigun Amidat Ayomide, Legal Adviser, Youth Advancement Initiative (YAI), Osun State Chapter.
Political Intimidation and Fear
Speaking at the symposium, Comr. Akinbode Olakolupo Oluwasegun, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Osun State Chapter, raised concerns over what he described as the increasing atmosphere of fear and political intimidation surrounding electoral activities in the state.
He expressed concern over alleged inflammatory statements capable of escalating political tensions and potentially encouraging violence against supporters of opposing political parties.
According to him, the major concern among many citizens is not necessarily the act of voting itself, but the fear created by political conspiracies, intimidation and what he described as dangerous narratives allegedly being circulated by political actors.
He also questioned the response of law enforcement authorities to statements that could potentially threaten public peace, stressing the need for security agencies to act promptly where credible threats or inciting statements are reported.
Comr. Akinbode maintained that citizens must be able to participate in the electoral process without fear of violence, intimidation or harassment.
‘Youths Must Not Be Discouraged From Voting’
Also speaking, Hon. Oladunjoye Opeyemi Ogbami, Osun State Hospital Management Board Member and Legal Adviser to the Youth Mobilization Committee, urged young people not to allow online threats and political tension to discourage them from exercising their civic responsibility.
She encouraged eligible voters, particularly youths, to come out and vote during the election.
Hon. Ogbami described some of the threats circulating on social media as online trolling and intimidation, urging young people to remain calm, informed and focused on their civic responsibilities.
She expressed optimism that the political tension surrounding the election would reduce significantly as election day approaches, noting that the level of attention being given to the election could also increase scrutiny of the electoral process.
She further expressed hope that the election would be conducted in a free, fair, peaceful and credible manner.
Competence Should Guide Political Choices — Ogbonnaya
In his contribution, Comr. Ogbonnaya Chinedu Emmanuel, National President of the Youth Advancement Initiative (YAI), urged young voters to place competence, capacity and accountability above sentiments when choosing political leaders.
He advised youths not to allow party affiliation, personal sentiments or other considerations to completely determine their political choices.
According to him, the ability and competence of candidates should remain important factors in deciding who deserves the mandate of the people.
He added that the principle of choosing competent and accountable leaders should not be limited to the forthcoming Osun State election, but should also guide young Nigerians in making political choices at the national level.
Ebenezer Ige Sends Apology
Comr. Ebenezer Ige, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Civil Society Engagement, who was listed as one of the speakers, was unable to attend the symposium and subsequently sent an apology for his absence.
YAI Calls for Peaceful Democratic Participation
The symposium concluded with a strong emphasis on the need for young people to remain informed, participate actively in the electoral process and reject violence and intimidation.
The speakers collectively stressed that the future of democratic governance depends significantly on citizens' willingness to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and peacefully.
The Youth Advancement Initiative also emphasised the importance of cooperation among political stakeholders, security agencies, civil society organisations, young people and other members of the public in creating an environment where citizens can exercise their voting rights freely and safely.
The organisation urged young voters to obtain the necessary electoral information, understand their civic responsibilities and make independent decisions based on the competence and capacity of candidates.
The symposium was part of YAI's efforts to promote voter education, youth participation and responsible democratic engagement ahead of the Osun State governorship election.
Documented by:
Adeosun Tobiloba M. (Magislord)
Secretary, Youth Advancement Initiative (YAI), Osun State Chapter
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