Ahead of the 2019 general elections, the Community Action for Popular Participation (CAPP), a non-governmental organisation, has advised youths in Plateau to desist from all forms of electoral violence.
The Acting Executive Director of the organisation, Mr Nelson Ananze, gave the advice at a one-day sensitisation programme for youths held in Jos.
The programme which was titled “Strengthening Citizen’s Engagement in Electoral Process in Nigeria”, had support from UK aid, BBC Media Action and Actionaid Nigeria.
According to him, the endorsement of the “Not Too Young to Run” bill by 24 state Houses of Assemblies in the country has placed the youths in a vantage position of leadership, hence the need to desist from violence.
“Today, we are here to sensitise our youths on the need to stay off electoral violence.
“We are all witnesses to how youths have been victims of various violence, especially the massive violence that erupted after the 2011 general elections.
“To avoid a repeat of such ugly situation come 2019, it is imperative for the youths to eschew violence before, during and after elections.
“Our youths must channel their energies into positive things that will breed development for the country rather than negative ones,” Anenze said.
He further advised the youths against being used by politicians to engage in electoral vices, adding that it could jeopardize their future and that of the country.
The official urged youths to support the political aspiration of their fellow youths, saying that it would create room for a more formidable governance in the country.
The programme had participants from Jenta Adamu, Garba Daho and Naraguta B wards of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau.
