Ondo 2024: Youth as the Key to Shaping The Future - Otunba Femi Balogun

The Critical Gubernatorial Election in Ondo State is a Turning Point for Youth Engagement and Democratic Progress

The upcoming gubernatorial election in Ondo State on November 16, 2024, marks a crucial turning point for both the state and the broader Nigerian democratic landscape. This election is not merely a contest between two seasoned public servants but a transformative opportunity for the youth of Ondo State to assert their influence and redefine the political future of their state and nation.

Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the incumbent governor representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Hon. Alfred Agboola Ajayi, a former deputy governor running on the People's Democratic Party (PDP) platform, both bring significant experience in public service. Aiyedatiwa's tenure as governor and Ajayi's previous role as deputy governor underscore their deep understanding of the state's political and socio-economic landscape, making them formidable candidates.

However, the 2024 election transcends the individual credentials of these candidates. It represents a defining moment for the youth of Ondo State. With over 60% of Nigeria's population under the age of 30, young voters possess immense potential to shape the outcome of this election. According to the National Population Commission, approximately 78 million of Nigeria's estimated 211 million people are youth. The pressing question remains: will the youth rise to this occasion, or will the pattern of low voter turnout persist? Despite being one of the largest demographic groups, only about 34% of eligible young voters participated in the 2019 general elections. This disengagement, if it continues, threatens to undermine the democratic process and diminish the youth's influence on policies that directly affect their lives.

A New Era of Political Engagement

The era when youth were seen as tools for electoral violence and thuggery is over. Today, youth have crucial roles to play in shaping Nigeria's future, just as movements like #EndSARS have demonstrated that young people are not passive observers but active participants in demanding accountability and change. This newfound political consciousness must now translate into active participation in elections. The #EndSARS protests of 2020, which mobilized thousands across the nation, showcased the power of youth activism in holding leaders accountable and demanding transparency. This wave of activism underscores the urgent need for young people to leverage their collective power in the electoral process.

In modern democracy, the vote is the most powerful instrument for enacting the desired leadership and bringing about meaningful change. In Ondo State, with its population of over 1.8 million registered voters, the youth present a unique opportunity to change this narrative. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ondo State has consistently recorded low voter turnout rates, averaging around 30% in past elections. This trend must change if the youth are to assert their influence and shape the state's political landscape.

Mobilizing for Change: The Youth's Role in the Election

The power to influence the outcome of this critical election lies in the hands of the youth, but only if they mobilize effectively. The youth have shown their ability to drive change through grassroots movements; now, this momentum must be channeled into the electoral process. Organizations like the Youth Coalition for Good Governance are already working to educate young voters and encourage them to participate actively in the upcoming election.

Furthermore, the presence of influential youth leaders in national politics is a testament to the potential for significant impact. Figures such as the Minister of Interior, Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Hon. Ayo Olawande, and Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero, representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency, exemplify the ability of young people to hold significant positions of influence and drive positive change. Their participation in governance serves as an inspiration for young voters in Ondo State to engage actively in the political process.

Barriers to Youth Participation

Despite the enthusiasm among the youth, several factors contribute to low youth turnout in elections, including disenchantment with the political system, economic hardships, and the threat of electoral violence. In a country where youth unemployment exceeds 42%, many young people prioritize immediate survival over long-term political engagement. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that approximately 60% of Nigerian youth are either unemployed or underemployed, significantly impacting their ability to engage with the political process.

Additionally, the prevalent culture of electoral violence has instilled fear among young voters, discouraging them from participating in elections. The 2019 general elections witnessed several incidents of violence, leading to a climate of fear that further alienates young voters from the electoral process. However, this election has direct consequences for their future, encompassing job creation, education reform, healthcare improvements, and security. The leaders elected in Ondo 2024 will shape these policies, making it imperative for young voters to engage fully with the process.

Addressing Voter Apathy

To combat voter apathy, several measures are essential. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties, and civil society organizations must collaborate to build confidence in the electoral process. Electoral reforms, enhanced security measures, and robust voter education campaigns targeting youth are crucial to creating an environment where young people feel empowered to participate.

Leveraging digital tools and social media can also increase awareness and make voting more accessible. With over 33 million active social media users in Nigeria, according to Statista, these platforms can serve as powerful tools for mobilizing young voters and disseminating information about the electoral process. Campaigns that harness social media effectively can engage and educate young voters about their rights, the importance of their participation, and the implications of their votes.

The Transformative Power of Youth Engagement

The 2024 Ondo election represents more than a contest between two political figures. It is an opportunity for the youth to assert their rightful place in shaping the future of their state and Nigeria as a whole. If the young electorate takes action, they could be the deciding factor in determining who leads Ondo State for the next four years.

Statistics show that youth turnout can significantly sway election outcomes. For instance, in the 2018 gubernatorial elections in Osun State, the youth vote played a crucial role in the narrow victory of the incumbent governor, who garnered over 50% of the youth vote. This example underscores the potential impact of organized and motivated youth participation in elections.

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

Furthermore, engaging the youth in the electoral process can foster a new generation of leaders who are attuned to the needs and aspirations of their peers. The youth must seize the moment and engage with the candidates, questioning them on policies affecting their future. Creating forums where candidates can interact with young voters can facilitate discussions about critical issues such as education, employment, and security. These engagements will help demystify the political process and encourage informed voting.

Educational institutions, local organizations, and youth groups can play a vital role in facilitating these dialogues, ensuring that young people have access to the information necessary to make informed choices at the polls. Additionally, mentorship programs that connect young voters with experienced leaders can cultivate a sense of responsibility and inspire future political participation.

A Call to Action:

The time for excuses has passed; the youth must rise, vote, and lead the way in shaping the future of democracy in Ondo State and beyond. Their votes and active participation are the keys to ensuring the leadership they desire and deserve. As Ondo State approaches this critical election, the onus is on the youth to mobilize, engage, and assert their power.

In a democracy, every vote counts, and the youth of Ondo State have the opportunity to influence the direction of their state profoundly. By embracing their roles as active participants in the electoral process, they can redefine what leadership looks like and advocate for policies that address their needs and aspirations.

As the election date approaches, let the message resonate: it is time for the youth to step up, take action, and claim their place in shaping the future of Ondo State. This election is not just about choosing a governor; it is about reclaiming their voice, ensuring their concerns are heard, and actively participating in the democracy they seek to build. The future is now, and it is in their hands.