Senator Adams Oshiomhole has sent a strong message to Nigeria’s political class, cautioning them against the persistent exploitation of unemployed youth to fuel electoral violence. The former Edo State Governor and current lawmaker described the practice as a dangerous weaponization of poverty that undermines democracy and national stability.
In a recent statement, Oshiomhole expressed deep concern over the increasing trend of politicians recruiting jobless young people as thugs during elections. He emphasized that the country’s high rate of youth unemployment should serve as a rallying point for economic empowerment and job creation — not political manipulation.
“The time has come for us to look ourselves in the mirror. We cannot continue to ignore the massive number of jobless young Nigerians and then turn around to use their desperation as a tool to destabilise elections,” Oshiomhole said. “Any politician who funds or arms these youths to cause chaos is an enemy of democracy and should be treated as such.”
The Senator noted that youth thuggery has become a recurring factor behind electoral violence, ballot box snatching, and rigging — all of which make it difficult for credible leaders to emerge through transparent polls.
A Call for Accountability and Reform
Oshiomhole also urged security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that politicians are held accountable for any violence perpetrated by their supporters during election seasons.
With several off-cycle and general elections approaching, the Senator emphasized that addressing youth unemployment is not just an economic necessity but a national security priority.
“We must find sustainable jobs for our young people. When a youth is productively engaged, he is less likely to accept N5,000 to risk his life and destroy public property for a politician,” he concluded.
Oshiomhole’s warning serves as a timely reminder that sustainable employment, education, and accountability are the true antidotes to electoral violence and political manipulation in Nigeria.
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