The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has called on African youths to take an active role in ensuring elections across the continent are peaceful and credible, okay.ng reports.
Speaking at the Civil Service University in The Gambia, Yakubu addressed students of International Affairs and Diplomacy, as well as Peace and Conflict Studies, on the subject of “Democracy and Peaceful Elections in West Africa.”
He highlighted the critical role young people play in the electoral process, describing them as the main workforce for Election Management Bodies, especially as temporary or ad hoc staff during elections. “Young people form the backbone of election duty staff,” he stated, emphasizing their involvement in key activities like voter registration.
Yakubu urged youths to participate in elections with integrity and a strong sense of responsibility, warning against electoral malpractice. He said, “If you want peaceful elections, play your part for God and country. Do the right thing. Obey the laws and regulations. That’s how we make every vote count.”
He also cautioned young political party agents against spreading misinformation that could incite violence or undermine public trust in the electoral process. Stressing the importance of truthful reporting, Yakubu warned, “Don’t be among the fake news merchants. If it’s not verified, don’t share it.”
Concluding his remarks, Yakubu encouraged African youths to stay engaged in the democratic process and not lose faith in its potential, describing democracy as a system that requires nurturing and protection, especially by the younger generation. At the end of the lecture, Yakubu was recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation by Mrs. Fatou Barry, Deputy Director General of the Civil Service University, Banjul, The Gambia.
