The Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has called on African youth to take the lead in fostering peaceful and credible elections across the continent.
Speaking on Tuesday, at the Civil Service University in the Republic of The Gambia, Yakubu underscored the critical role of young people in safeguarding democracy.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi, said the INEC Chairman delivered a lecture titled “Democracy and Peaceful Elections in West Africa” to students of International Affairs and Diplomacy as well as Peace and Conflict Studies.
He stressed the importance of youth participation in elections, describing it as indispensable to successful polls in Africa.
“Young people form the backbone of election duty staff,” he said, noting that Election Management Bodies, EMBs, across the continent rely heavily on youth as ad hoc staff during elections.
Beyond staffing, he pointed out that young people also constitute the largest segment of the voting population.
“They are deeply involved from the outset, especially in voter registration, which is one of the most critical stages of the electoral process. This task must be approached with patriotism, integrity, and a sense of national responsibility,” he said.
Yakubu urged youth to uphold democratic values, shun electoral malpractices, and engage in the political process with a positive mindset.
“If you want peaceful elections, play your part—do what is right for God and country. Obey the laws. That’s how we ensure every vote counts,” he said.
He also addressed their roles as political party agents, warning against the dissemination of false information that could incite violence or erode public confidence in the electoral system.
On the influence of digital media, the INEC Chairman cautioned against the spread of misinformation during election periods.
“Don’t be among the merchants of fake news. If it’s not verified, don’t share it. As citizen reporters, you have a responsibility to report accurately and responsibly,” he advised.
Yakubu appealed to young Africans not to lose faith in democracy, saying “This is the system we have chosen. It is ours to nurture, defend, and improve. Every young African must play a part in strengthening and sustaining democratic institutions.”
