Lagos Youth Council Warns Young People Not to Fight for Politicians

(Youth. Photo by Galaxy TV)
 

The National Youth Council of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, has urged young people not to be recruited or manipulated into political thuggery.

The warning follows the attack on NDC supporters at a town hall meeting in Lagos.

The council's chairman, Ibrahim Adigun, spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday in Lagos.

He said no amount of money or promise of political favours is worth a young person's life, criminal record or future.

He urged young Lagosians to see themselves as stakeholders in democracy and to put their energy into peaceful participation, civic duty and nation building.

Ibrahim also told the youths of Lagos chapter firmly opposes political thuggery, electoral violence and all forms of intimidation.

He expressed sympathy for those hurt or affected in the attack, especially young people, and wished them a full recovery.

He called on the authorities to find and prosecute those responsible.

Adigun also asked political parties, candidates and supporters to show civility and tolerance as campaigns pick up ahead of 2027.

He said campaigns should focus on ideas, policies, track records and credible alternatives.

He urged the security agencies, especially the Lagos State Police Command, to beef up security around political gatherings and public events and to act impartially to stop attacks.

The attack happened at about 11 am on Thursday at Classique Event Place in Oregun, where NDC supporters had gathered for a town hall meeting ahead of the expected visit of presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Eyewitnesses said armed men with cutlasses, cudgels and stones stormed the venue as people were getting ready, causing panic and forcing supporters and journalists to run.