Ogun Government Urges Youths to Champion Peace Over Election Violence

The Ogun State Government has urged youths to prioritize peace and dialogue as the 2027 election cycle nears, emphasizing that constructive engagement is far more effective than disruption.

Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, made this appeal during the 2026 International Youth Day celebration in Abeokuta, organized by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ogun State chapter. The event was themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”

Talabi commended the NYCN leadership for its maturity and urged youths to avoid political bigotry as they approach the elections. He highlighted the importance of youth involvement in maintaining law and order to prevent violence during this critical period.

“As the saying goes, build the youth, build the nation. We are focused on nurturing our youth and providing them with positive role models,” Talabi stated.

He warned that young people are often exploited during elections, stressing the government’s commitment to integrating them into efforts aimed at preserving peace. “We don’t want any political bigotry coming from the youth,” he added.

The SSG expressed confidence that Ogun youths would demonstrate maturity, leading to peaceful elections. He pointed out that the current administration has achieved more through dialogue than through confrontation.

“This administration has proven that dialogue yields better results than disruption. Why wait for conflict when we can negotiate for peace from the start?” he questioned.

Talabi reaffirmed the government's openness to innovative ideas from the youth, encouraging them to propose initiatives that enhance their growth. He assured them of the administration's support in building their capacities.

Olanrewaju Saka, the State Head of Service, echoed Talabi’s sentiments, emphasizing that despite diverse backgrounds, young people share common aspirations for a brighter future. He urged newly inaugurated ward executives to serve with integrity and inclusiveness.

In his address, NYCN state chairman Akolawole Shoremi praised the Abiodun-led administration for approving the state’s inaugural Youth Policy Document and facilitating the inauguration of 2,360 ward executives, a first in Nigeria.

Shoremi called on Ogun youths to resist being used as political thugs, urging them to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and engage in the electoral process actively. “We must avoid becoming tools for politicians; education and orientation are crucial,” he said.

Pioneer NYCN state chairman Pa Simeon Ogundipe urged the government to adopt job creation strategies similar to those in the Western world to empower the youth. 

The overarching message was clear: Ogun youths play a pivotal role in fostering peace and must take charge of their future as the elections approach.