Professor Udenta O. Udenta, Director at the Centre for Alternative Policy Perspectives and Strategy (CAPPS), Abuja, has called on Nigerian youths to gear up and become the defenders of democracy as the country heads toward the crucial 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a youth-focused summit, Prof Udenta emphasized that while democracy is under pressure, its survival depends largely on the commitment and action of young Nigerians.
“Democracy is not just a name or a word. It is a living symbol of who we are,” he declared, noting the sacrifices made by generations of Nigerians since 1914, through colonial rule, military dictatorship, and political activism.
WATCH FULL VIDEO OF PROF UDENTA ON SYMFONI TV
According to Prof Udenta, 2027 will mark a momentous phase in Nigeria’s democratic journey. He warned that multi-party democracy is under threat and urged young people to prepare not only with passion but with strategy.
“Enthusiasm can take you far, but it will not take you far enough,” he said, urging for a structured political infrastructure at the grassroots level. He highlighted flaws during the 2023 elections, where in some regions, parties like the Labour Party lacked polling agents, weakening electoral integrity.
He proposed a well-equipped electoral monitoring system, with trained and accredited agents at every voting unit. “Where there is no paper given to an agent, there should be no results announced,” he insisted.
Political Education as a Weapon
Prof Udenta underscored the need for deliberate political education. Drawing examples from U.S. institutions like the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI), he encouraged Nigerian parties to establish similar training institutions.
He also referenced the PDP’s early attempt with its People’s Democratic Institute (PDI) and said that now is the time for movements like the Obedient Movement to evolve into structured institutions capable of driving nationwide political engagement.
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“In 2023, the Obedient Movement was like an SUV — a special-purpose vehicle. But now, we need a political engine room that educates and mobilizes citizens with clarity and purpose.”
“This is your time,” he concluded. “If you do it right, not only will democracy thrive in 2027, but it will endure for generations to come.”
Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi was also present in the summit.
