By Innocent Ezeugonwa

Sir: By all indications, Nigeria is blessed with one of the youngest populations in the world. Young people dominate social media conversations, influence public opinion, mobilise support for political causes, and often determine the direction of electoral campaigns. Yet, despite this numerical advantage, there remains a troubling gap in political education among many youths, particularly regarding elections, representation, governance, and the consequences of political choices.
In recent election cycles, political discussions have increasingly degenerated into ethnic rivalry, regional supremacy contests, and personal attacks. Rather than evaluating candidates on competence, character, vision, and capacity to govern, many supporters appear more interested in defending tribal identities. Political debates that should centre on policies, economic programmes, security strategies, education, healthcare, and job creation often descend into arguments over which ethnic group deserves power. This trend is dangerous for democracy.

The fundamental purpose of an election is not to crown a tribe. It is to choose leaders who will manage the affairs of a nation on behalf of all citizens. A president does not govern only those who voted for him. He governs everyone. The consequences of good or bad leadership are shared by the entire country.

When the economy performs poorly, inflation does not discriminate between tribes. Rising food prices affect every family. Unemployment does not ask whether one is Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, Ijaw, Tiv, Efik, Kanuri, or from any other ethnic group. Insecurity threatens communities across regional boundaries. Poor healthcare, inadequate infrastructure, and declining educational standards are national burdens.

This reality highlights an important lesson that many young people must understand: political victory for one’s preferred candidate is not the same as national progress.

Indeed, some individuals may benefit directly from electoral victories. Political allies may receive appointments, contracts, privileges, or access to power. However, these benefits are usually limited to a small circle. The wider population experiences the broader consequences of governance. If a government succeeds, citizens generally benefit. If it fails, citizens collectively bear the cost.

This is why political choices should never be reduced to ethnic loyalty.
Consider a simple illustration. Imagine boarding a commercial bus for a long journey. Before departure, passengers are given the opportunity to choose the driver. One candidate for the role is a skilled, experienced, responsible driver. The other is known for recklessness, poor judgement, and occasional drunkenness. Would any sensible passenger choose the second driver simply because he comes from the same village, speaks the same language, or belongs to the same family? The answer is obvious.

Every passenger’s safety depends on the competence of the person behind the wheel. A poor driver can endanger everyone on board, including those who supported his appointment. In the same way, a nation entrusts its future to those elected into public office. Leadership is not a popularity contest. It is a serious responsibility that affects millions of lives.

Political education therefore becomes essential. Young Nigerians must learn that democracy is more than voting. It involves understanding how government works, knowing the responsibilities of elected officials, scrutinising campaign promises, demanding accountability, and assessing performance objectively. Citizens should ask practical questions: What is the candidate’s track record? What policies are being proposed? How realistic are those promises? Does the candidate possess the experience, temperament, and integrity required for the office?

Unfortunately, modern political engagement is increasingly shaped by social media algorithms that reward outrage rather than informed discussion. False information spreads rapidly. Propaganda often travels faster than facts. Political supporters sometimes become so emotionally attached to candidates that they defend every action, including obvious failures.

Democracy suffers when citizens abandon critical thinking. The strength of a democratic society lies not in blind loyalty but in informed participation. Citizens should be able to support a candidate while remaining willing to question mistakes and demand better performance. Political leaders are public servants, not kings. Their actions must be evaluated according to results, not emotions.

The future of Nigeria depends significantly on how its young people approach politics. A generation that votes on the basis of competence, integrity, and national interest will strengthen democratic institutions and improve governance. A generation that votes primarily on ethnic sentiment risks perpetuating cycles of poor leadership and national disappointment.

Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division. Elections should not become battlegrounds for ethnic superiority. They should be opportunities to identify the most capable individuals to solve national problems.

The challenge before Nigerian youth is therefore clear. They must rise above propaganda, tribal sentiment, and personality cults. They must recognise that every election is ultimately about their future, their livelihoods, their security, and their opportunities.

When choosing a leader, the most important question should never be, “Is he one of us?” The more important question is, “Can he govern well for all of us?” That is the true essence of democratic choice. That is the foundation of responsible citizenship. And that is the political education Nigeria urgently needs.

Innocent Ezeugonwa is a Mass Communication scholar, political and current affairs analyst.