Abuja: The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has made an earnest appeal to the youth of Nigeria, urging them to overcome the persistent trend of political self-marginalisation and actively support young candidates in the forthcoming 2027 general elections. This call to action was articulated in a statement by the party’s National Youth Leader, Ozu Important, stressing the need for young Nigerians to take charge of their political future.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Important addressed the pressing issue of the disconnect between Nigeria’s youthful demographic and their representation in governance. Citing the recent Voters Preference Survey (VPS) conducted by Invictus Africa, he highlighted a concerning statistic: only 32.3 percent of Nigerian youths expressed willingness to vote for their peers in elections. This figure, he argued, underscores the under-representation of youths in governmental positions at all levels, despite making up a significant portion of the population.
The youth leader emphasized the myriad challenges facing Nigeria, such as unemployment, insecurity, and inadequate healthcare, which necessitate new ideas and bold leadership. He asserted that young leaders possess essential qualities like innovation, accountability, and genuine representation, all of which are crucial for driving the country’s progress.
Important urged the youth to support credible and competent youthful candidates who demonstrate the necessary capacity and character. He also advised against vote selling, encouraging young Nigerians to refuse short-term gains in exchange for their future. He called on them to engage actively in the political process by joining political parties, running for office, and holding leaders accountable.
Highlighting the PRP’s commitment to this cause, Important mentioned the party’s strategy of endorsing vibrant candidates, such as Dr. Rasaq Saliu (Orisunlagba), who is contesting in the upcoming Osun governorship election. He expressed that the time to redeem the nation is now.
In a rallying cry, he concluded, “On this International Youth Day, let us move from hashtags to ballots, from complaints to candidates, from spectators to stakeholders. The future we want will not be handed to us. We must vote for it, build it, and lead it.”