The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has urged African youths to play an active role in ensuring peaceful and credible elections across the continent.
Yakubu made this call on Tuesday during a lecture at the Civil Service University in The Gambia, according to a statement by the commission on Wednesday.
He addressed students of International Affairs and Diplomacy, as well as Peace and Conflict Studies, on the topic, “Democracy and Peaceful Elections in West Africa.”
He emphasised the need for young people to engage in electoral processes with integrity and a strong commitment to democratic values.
According to the INEC Chairman, youth participation is vital for successful elections in Africa.
He highlighted their importance as the primary manpower for Election Management Bodies, noting that many are engaged as temporary or ad hoc staff during elections.
“Young people form the backbone of election duty staff,” he said, stressing that their involvement in tasks such as voter registration is crucial to the electoral cycle.
Yakubu also warned against electoral malpractice and urged youths to act with responsibility and patriotism.
“If you want peaceful elections, play your part for God and country. Do the right thing. Obey the laws and regulations. That’s how we make every vote count,” he said.
He further cautioned young political party agents against spreading misinformation that could incite violence or erode public trust in the electoral process.
Yakubu underscored the importance of accurate and truthful reporting during elections, particularly in the digital age, and warned against the dangers of fake news.
“Don’t be among the fake news merchants. If it’s not verified, don’t share it,” he advised.
In concluding his address, Yakubu encouraged African youths to remain actively engaged in the democratic process and not to lose faith in its potential. He described democracy as a system that must be nurtured and protected by all, particularly the younger generation.
Following the lecture, Yakubu was honoured and presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by the Deputy Director General of the Civil Service University, Banjul, The Gambia, Mrs Fatou Barry.