As the 2027 poll approaches, a coalition of groups from across the country, under the auspices of the African Democratic Youth Congress (ADYC), has called on well-meaning Nigerians to resist the menace of vote-buying and godfatherism in the polity.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Alhaji Murtala Haliru Dantoro stated at a press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday that vote buying would continue to produce leaders who would keep the country moving backwards.

Stating ADYC’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and genuine inclusion of the youths in the governance of the country, Dantoro said it is essential for well-meaning Nigerians to expose any form of electoral fraud ahead of the 2027 poll.

He said: “We must understand that vote-buying is not merely a transaction; it is a betrayal of our collective future. It is the tool that empowers the wrong people – individuals who prioritise personal gain over public service, and who will inevitably fail to bring the desperately needed development to our communities. They buy their way in, and they will only serve themselves.

“Therefore, I call upon every young person here, and indeed every youth across Nigeria, to make it your sacred and mandatory exercise to educate and give orientation to our grassroots communities on the grave danger of vote-buying. Go into every village, every street, every home, and enlighten our people about the power of their vote and the destructive consequences of selling it.”

Expressing concern over the high levels of unemployment, insecurity, and limited opportunities faced by the many youths in the country, he emphasised the need for a supportive environment where every young person has the chance to flourish and help build the greatness of our nation.

Ms Ruqayya Lamido Dodo, who spoke similarly, expressed disappointment with the political system for allegedly sidelining the large population of youths from participating in the country’s governance.

She added: “We have been called the ‘leaders of tomorrow,’ a phrase that has become little more than a polite way to sideline us from today’s critical decisions. Our generation is tired of being spectators in a nation that belongs to us. We are tired of seeing our potential wasted, our voices ignored, and our future held hostage by a political system that has failed us repeatedly.

“We are here to prove that politics is not a dirty game, but a powerful tool for progress when wielded with integrity and purpose. We reject the old politics of thuggery, godfatherism, and ethnic division. Our politics will be built on ideas, on solutions, and the empowerment of every young Nigerian.”