Youth Apathy Threatens Democracy, SCDDD Member-Warns

Youth Apathy Threatens Democracy, SCDDD Member-Warns

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

A member of the Council of the Wise Savannah Center for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development (SCDDD), Ummu Kalthum Muhammad Rabiu, has urged Nigerian youths to reject political apathy and actively participate in the country’s democratic process, warning that staying away from elections allows others to determine their future.

In a civic engagement message addressed to young Nigerians, Rabiu acknowledged the growing frustration among many youths, particularly those who believe their votes do not matter or that politics has little relevance to their lives.

She, however, argued that choosing not to participate in elections carries significant consequences.

“I hear many of you say, ‘My vote won’t count,’ or ‘Politics is not for me.’ I understand the frustration. But silence is also a choice, and apathy is a vote that allows someone else to decide your future,” she said.

According to her, decisions affecting education, employment opportunities, security, internet access and national development are ultimately shaped by citizens through their participation in the democratic process.

She stressed that governance is not determined solely by leaders in Abuja but also by the willingness of citizens to exercise their constitutional rights and hold public officeholders accountable.

Rabiu said the SCDDD Council of the Wise views civic participation as an essential tool for promoting peace, strengthening democratic institutions and fostering national development.

She encouraged eligible Nigerians to register as voters, obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), participate in elections, question political candidates on their plans and continue to demand accountability from elected officials after polls.

“Our civic responsibility is peacebuilding. Register to vote, collect your Permanent Voter Card, participate on election day, ask candidates the tough questions, and continue to hold elected leaders accountable after the elections,” she said.

She further called on young people to see themselves as critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s democratic future, insisting that meaningful national progress depends on active citizen participation.

“Nigeria’s future will not build itself. We must build it together. Don’t sit this one out. Your vote is your voice. Use it,” she added.

Rabiu’s message comes amid ongoing calls by civil society organisations for increased youth participation in governance and electoral processes ahead of future elections, as concerns persist over voter apathy and declining civic engagement among young Nigerians.