By Khadija Kubau
The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) has urged Nigerian youths, particularly those in the North, to embrace peace, discipline and responsibility as the country approaches another electioneering season.
The Foundation made the call in a statement signed by its Director-General, Engr. Abubakar Gambo Umar, in Kaduna.
It urged youths to campaign for candidates of their choice with maturity and restraint, warning them against allowing themselves to be used for activities capable of undermining peace and security.
The Foundation described the election period as a critical moment that requires patriotism, wisdom and responsible conduct from all stakeholders.
It stressed that political differences should not turn opponents into enemies, urging young people to recognise that their education, lives and future are more valuable than temporary political gains.
“Political opponents are not enemies to be fought, insulted or destroyed. They are fellow citizens with different views and a shared commitment to the progress of our nation,” the Foundation said.
It also appealed to parents and guardians to closely monitor their children during the electioneering period and prevent them from being recruited as political thugs or instruments of violence.
Instead, the Foundation encouraged parents to guide young people towards education, skills acquisition, honest trade and other productive activities that could secure their future.
SABMF further advised youths to stay away from drugs, gangs and criminal activities, stressing the need for them to remain alive, educated and productive members of society.
“Your parents need you. Your communities need you. Arewa needs you alive, educated and useful,” it stated.
The Foundation called on Northerners to collectively prioritise peace, order and development as the region enters another important political season.
