The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Gombe State has advised youths to shun violence and drug abuse ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Hajiya Maimuna Abubakar, the State Director of the agency, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Gombe on Monday.
She said that the call was imperative as the country approaches the 2027 political campaigns and general elections.
Abubakar said youths should not allow themselves to be hoodwinked to forment violence in favor of political parties or their candidates.
She said that any acts that deviate from the expected rules of playing politics should be jettisoned.
The director said that youths engaging in violent acts has a way of presenting them unfit for leadership positions in the future.
Abubakar enjoined the youths to comport themselves and be of good behavior before, during and after the election process.
“Conduct yourselves in an appropriate manner rather than being used as instruments of violence.
“You are also eligible to vote and be voted for but that can only happen if only you are well behaved.
“When you vote without violence, Nigeria wins irrespective of the elected,” she said.
According to Abubakar, election is not a do or die affair, when you conduct yourselves in a responsible manner, even the elected leaders will respect you.
She said that elections is not war but job interviews for leaders, come out peacefully, vote wisely and protect your votes.
“When you are used to perpetrate violence, you will be dumped afterwards and if you get caught by security operatives in the act, you will be prosecuted,” she said.
Abubakar also urged eligible Nigerians to get their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs), adding that, “the PVC is a contact with elected leaders and the power to shape the next four years, do not leave it behind on election day.”
She warned against spread of fake news and verify news sources before sharing social media to avoid anything that could threaten the peace and stability of the country.
“Fake news kill democracy faster than violence, if you do not hear it from INEC, NOA or trusted media, don’t share the news, verify first.” (NAN).
