An influential activist in Kogi State, Idris Abdul Miliki, has passionately called for the amendment of the Nigerian constitution to facilitate increased participation of youths in leadership positions within the country. Miliki made this plea during a one-day round table for youth-focused organizations and the media, organized by the Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR).
Miliki articulated his stance on Friday, highlighting the existing constitutional requirement that mandates individuals aspiring to become Governors or Presidents to be at least 35 years old as a barrier to youth inclusion in governance.
He profoundly expressed, “It is imperative for Nigerians to address this inherent flaw in our constitution. It is disheartening that while an 18-year-old individual can vote for a 70-year-old presidential candidate, the reverse is not permissible due to constitutional restrictions. This incongruity must be rectified.”
Moreover, Miliki emphasized the significance of youth engagement in the political process, citing its pivotal role in fostering peace, security, citizen well-being, and the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, ensuring inclusivity for all.
He astutely remarked, “The aftermath of the 2023 elections has underscored profound lessons for the developmental landscape, necessitating enhanced citizen action and responsiveness.”
Notably, Miliki also addressed the palpable disillusionment amongst young individuals following the elections, evident through social media activism, judicial interventions, conflicts with authority in some states, and an escalating desire to emigrate from the country.
“Young persons (aged 18-34) constituted a substantial 39.65% (37,060,399 votes) of the electorate, as indicated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2023 General elections in Nigeria,” Miliki stated.
He highlighted the lamentable disparity between the considerable youth demographic and their inadequate representation in political leadership roles, both elective and appointive, attributing this to the disenchantment hindering their effective participation in shaping good governance in Nigeria.
Asserting the focus of CHRCR to enhance the involvement of young individuals in governance and leadership in Kogi State, Miliki underscored the need for substantial reforms.
In response, James Ozomata, the Chairman of the Kogi Youth Development Commission, lauded CHRCR for its unwavering commitment to advocating for youth empowerment in Kogi State. Represented by Nazif Yusuf, he urged the youth to cohesively strive for leadership roles while eschewing social vices such as violence, criminal activities, thuggery, and armed robbery.
