The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has cautioned students to reject any temptation that could compromise their dignity for political exploitation.

The coalition also urged Northern students to base their convictions on competence and credibility, and to shun tribal and religious sentiments in politics.

CNG National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Chiranchi, issued the caution on Monday during a one-day sensitisation programme for Northern students held at Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso, Kano.

Chiranchi reminded students that Northern youths had been part of the struggle for the nation’s democracy and insisted that they must avoid being used by selfish politicians to achieve personal interests.

According to Chiranchi, Northern students should be ready to work with all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, religion, or other identities, while rejecting people who exploit tribal and religious divisions.

“Nigerian students should vote for leaders based on their competency and pedigree. When I say pedigree, I refer to the record of their political antecedents in their local communities and in society.

“Nigerian students are part of those who struggled for this democracy, some of whom even lost their lives.

So democracy is for Nigerian students, and Nigerian students are for democracy. But the question is: who are we voting for, and are we engaging in politics for personal gain?

“Are we there for our own benefit, or are we there for the benefit of the region and the country at large? Nigerian students, wherever they are, should demonstrate that we are Nigerian students acting for the betterment of Nigeria and Nigerians.

“That is why we are saying they should shun politics of tribe, shun politics of religion, and reject people who prioritise tribal interests over poverty, ignorance, and many other societal challenges,” Chiranchi noted.

On his part, National Leader of the Coalition, Dr Salisu Mohammed, lamented the increasing level of drug abuse among the younger generation in the North and warned against destroying their future.

Dr Mohammed reminded that the only way the North can regain its past glory is through the ability of the younger generation to occupy leadership positions and lead by example.

He, however, expressed concern that youths who should occupy the front line are regrettably engulfed in social vices inimical to their future.

“Nigerian leaders have failed the citizens. The younger generation is also disappointed, having been served by weak leaders.

The only way forward is for youths to take the front seat in Nigerian politics. But for youths to assume that position, they need to be responsible.

“They must adhere to core values that inculcate discipline and integrity to foster development.

Regrettably, our youths are lost to drug abuse, which is capable of destroying their future.

All hands must be on deck to stop this uncharitable behaviour, and that is why the coalition is calling on Northern youths to reconsider the future of the next generation,” Dr Mohammed said.