As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the founder of Sophie’s Treat Trove and renowned entrepreneur, Mrs. Sophia Otemabor Lawrence, has called on Nigerian youths to actively participate in the democratic process by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing the voter card as a powerful instrument for shaping the country’s future.

Speaking to thousands of youths in Ughelli, Delta State, on Friday, Lawrence urged young Nigerians to abandon political apathy and embrace their civic responsibility by registering and collecting their PVCs to enable them vote for credible candidates during the 2027 polls.

She stressed that the nation’s future rests largely in the hands of its youthful population, noting that meaningful political participation is essential for strengthening democracy and influencing the country’s direction.

“The Permanent Voter Card is more than just an identity document for elections; it is a powerful tool for determining the future of Nigeria. Young people must not remain indifferent to the electoral process. They should register, collect their PVCs, and use their votes to shape the nation’s next phase of development,” she said.

Lawrence also issued a strong warning against political violence, cautioning youths—particularly those in Delta State—not to allow themselves to be recruited as political thugs by desperate politicians during the electioneering period.

She advised young people to reject any attempt to use them as instruments of violence, insisting that no political ambition is worth risking their lives.

According to her, whenever politicians seek to recruit youths for violent activities, they should be challenged to involve their own children instead.
She criticised politicians who keep their children comfortably abroad while encouraging other people’s children to engage in violence at home, describing such practices as exploitative and unacceptable.

Lawrence urged Nigerian youths to reject thuggery, corruption, and other social vices, while embracing peaceful coexistence, respect for the rule of law, and responsible citizenship.

She further encouraged them to remain committed to their education, businesses, vocational pursuits, and other legitimate means of livelihood, emphasizing that hard work, entrepreneurship, and self-development remain the most reliable paths to personal success and national development.