By David Onwuchekwa
In many parts of Nigeria, especially during election seasons, a disturbing trend repeats itself: young people are armed and exploited by desperate politicians seeking power at all costs.
These politicians, unwilling to risk their own reputations or safety, recruit idle or vulnerable youths to carry out electoral violence, intimidate opponents, snatch ballot boxes, and generally sow chaos.
The consequences of such actions are far-reaching, and most tragically, the youths themselves end up as the greatest victims.
Once elections are over and the politicians are safely in office, shielded by wealth and influence, these youths are left behind, disarmed politically but still heavily armed in reality.
With no sustainable plan for their lives and no legitimate source of income, many of them turn to crime, having been introduced to violence and criminal networks during the campaigns.
The post-election period, therefore, sees a predictable spike in armed robbery, cult clashes, kidnappings, and other violent crimes, especially in a State where political thuggery was rampant.
This tragic cycle does not only destroy lives; it undermines the security and development of entire communities. Parents lose children, businesses suffer, and the general atmosphere is one of fear and instability.
As Anambra State prepares for governorship election, to hold on November 8, 2025, youths must understand that accepting weapons or money to act as political thugs is a short-term gain with long-term pain.
The peanuts given during elections cannot replace the future they risk losing. They must begin to see themselves as stakeholders in the nation’s future, not tools in the hands of selfish politicians.
Empowerment through education, skills acquisition, peaceful advocacy, and political awareness is the path forward.
Instead of violence, youths should organize, vote wisely, hold the politicians accountable, and insist on issue-based politics.
The real power lies not in guns or stolen votes but in a united, enlightened youth population that refuses to be used and dumped. It is time to break the cycle.
