The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cautioned that the growing indifference among young Nigerians toward voting is eroding the foundation of the nation’s democratic system. During the 2026 International Youth Day event in Abuja, party leaders urged young citizens to leverage their vast numbers to influence elections and policy instead of remaining passive observers.
Arthur Ekwelem, the PDP National Director of Administration, emphasized that democracy requires active involvement, noting that those who abstain from the electoral process effectively hand their power to others. He pointed to barriers such as economic instability, distrust in leadership, fears of violence, and the high cost of campaigning as primary reasons for low youth participation.
Representing the event chair, former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, PDP Gombe gubernatorial candidate Isah Pantami highlighted that while youths represent over 60 percent of the population, they face significant hurdles. He argued that the ‘Not Too Young To Run’ initiative is currently more theoretical than practical due to the exorbitant financial requirements for running for office. Furthermore, Hon. Loveth Izekor of the PDP Female Youth Wing advocated for young women to transition from being mere campaign tools to becoming influential decision-makers.
PDP National Youth Leader Amb. Ibrahim Bala-Aboki reported that his office is actively working to increase grassroots involvement through the new National Youth Leadership Consultative Forum and a vocational training program. He challenged the youth to reject passivity, reminding them that their collective voice is essential for directing the nation’s future.
