Says credible elections, youth inclusion critical to Nigeria’s democratic future and national stability
By A1NEWS International
ABUJA, Nigeria — July 31, 2026
With political activities expected to intensify ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a strong appeal to Nigerian youths to become champions of peaceful, responsible and informed democratic participation, warning that violence, misinformation and voter manipulation remain significant threats to credible elections.
The Commission said the country’s democratic future depends largely on how young Nigerians engage in the electoral process, urging them to move beyond political discussions on social media and actively participate through lawful civic engagement and voting.
Youth Hold the Key to Nigeria’s Democratic Future
Speaking at the 6th National Leadership and Youth Stakeholders Conference themed “2027 Elections: From Voices to Votes – Process, Participation, Security and National Stability Beyond 2027,” the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Chief Tony Ojukwu, OFR, SAN, described Nigerian youths as the country’s greatest force for democratic transformation.
According to him, the constitutional rights to vote and be voted for can only achieve their intended purpose when citizens participate peacefully, responsibly and without intimidation.
He challenged young Nigerians to become active defenders of democracy by rejecting electoral violence, vote-buying, hate speech, misinformation, discrimination and every form of political intimidation capable of undermining the integrity of elections.
Electoral Violence Still Threatens Democratic Credibility
Although the Commission did not reference specific incidents, its warning reflects recurring concerns raised after previous elections, where allegations of violence, voter suppression, misinformation campaigns and electoral malpractice affected public confidence in the democratic process.
Political analysts have repeatedly identified Nigerian youths as both the largest voting bloc and the demographic most vulnerable to political exploitation during elections.
The NHRC argued that protecting electoral rights is not solely the responsibility of electoral bodies and security agencies but requires the active commitment of citizens, especially young people.
NHRC Outlines Rights-Based Election Strategy
Chief Ojukwu reaffirmed that the Commission will continue implementing a rights-based election monitoring framework before, during and after the 2027 elections.
According to him, the NHRC will intensify:
- Human rights monitoring during elections.
- Investigation of electoral rights violations.
- Civic and voter education.
- Strategic collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
- Engagement with security agencies.
- Partnerships with political parties, civil society organisations and development partners.
The Commission believes these coordinated efforts will strengthen electoral transparency and improve public confidence in democratic institutions.
Lessons from the 2023 General Elections
The NHRC also highlighted the impact of its Mobilising Voters for Election (MOVE) Project, implemented during the 2023 General Elections.
According to the Commission, the initiative promoted:
- Peaceful electoral participation.
- Civic education.
- Increased inclusion of youths.
- Greater participation of women.
- Representation of other underrepresented groups.
The Commission noted that experiences gathered from the MOVE Project are now shaping its advocacy strategy and preparations for the 2027 electoral cycle.
Beyond Elections: Call for Accountable Leadership
Beyond voting, Chief Ojukwu stressed that Nigeria’s democratic success depends on leaders who embrace integrity, accountability, transparency and respect for human rights.
He argued that sustainable democracy also requires greater investment in:
- Youth entrepreneurship.
- Innovation.
- Skills acquisition.
- Employment opportunities.
According to him, empowering young people economically will reduce poverty, unemployment and their vulnerability to political manipulation during elections.
Democracy Requires Active Citizens
The NHRC reiterated its commitment to working closely with youth organisations, government institutions, civil society groups and development partners to deepen civic education and promote peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.
“The future of Nigeria depends on informed, active and responsible citizens. Your voices are important, but your votes give those voices democratic legitimacy. Together, let us build a Nigeria where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, and human rights remain the foundation of democratic governance,” Ojukwu stated.
As preparations gradually begin for the 2027 General Elections, the NHRC’s intervention underscores growing institutional efforts to encourage peaceful political participation and protect democratic rights.
Whether these appeals translate into violence-free elections will depend on the commitment of political actors, electoral institutions, security agencies and, above all, millions of Nigerian voters—particularly the youth population expected to shape the country’s next political transition.
Leave a Reply