This deep dive examines the role of youth in Nigerian politics, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges they face. They discuss the historical context of youth activism, the legal framework surrounding youth participation, and the impact of the #EndSARS protests on the 2023 elections. The sources also explore the challenges youth face, such as economic and educational barriers, and offer potential solutions for increasing youth engagement in politics.

Timeline of Main Events in Nigerian Youth Activism:

Pre-2020:

  • Early-Mid 20th Century: Youth movements play a key role in the struggle against colonialism and the fight for Nigerian independence. Figures like Nnamdi Azikiwe and Obafemi Awolowo rise to prominence.

2020:

  • October: The #EndSARS movement emerges in response to a viral video depicting alleged police brutality by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
  • October: #EndSARS protests spread nationwide, evolving to encompass broader demands for good governance, accountability, and an end to corruption.
  • October: The Lekki Massacre occurs, where security forces open fire on peaceful protesters at the Lekki Toll Gate, leading to multiple casualties and international condemnation. The government commits to disbanding SARS.

2023:

  • Run-up to Elections: Youth engagement in political discourse and advocacy intensifies, fueled by socio-economic challenges and inspired by the #EndSARS movement. There is a surge in youth voter registration (76% of new voters are young people).
  • February 25th: Presidential election takes place. Young voters overwhelmingly support Peter Obi of the Labour Party, but Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is declared the winner.
  • Post-Election: Widespread allegations of electoral malpractice and voter suppression emerge, leaving many young Nigerians disillusioned. Despite not achieving their desired outcome, the youth vote demonstrates a shift in the political landscape.

2024:

  • Ongoing: The impact of #EndSARS continues to resonate, inspiring further youth activism around issues like education reform, gender equality, climate change, and economic empowerment.
  • Ongoing: Organisations like the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Nigeria run programs like “Open Minds, Young Voices” to empower young activists and provide them with skills for leadership and advocacy.

Cast of Characters:

Historical Figures:

  • Nnamdi Azikiwe: A leading figure in the Nigerian independence movement, Azikiwe served as the first President of Nigeria from 1963 to 1966. He is considered one of the founding fathers of the nation.
  • Obafemi Awolowo: A prominent nationalist and political leader, Awolowo played a significant role in Nigeria’s struggle for independence. He served as the first Premier of the Western Region and later as Federal Commissioner for Finance.

Contemporary Activists and Politicians:

  • Aisha Yesufu: A prominent activist and co-convener of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, Yesufu is a vocal critic of government policies and a strong advocate for human rights in Nigeria. She was also a visible figure during the #EndSARS protests.
  • Omoyele Sowore: An activist, journalist, and founder of the news website Sahara Reporters, Sowore is known for his criticism of corruption and his calls for good governance. He was a presidential candidate in the 2019 Nigerian general election and has faced legal challenges for his activism.
  • Peter Obi: A businessman and former governor of Anambra State, Obi was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election. He gained significant support from young Nigerians for his perceived integrity and focus on good governance.
  • Bola Ahmed Tinubu: The incumbent President of Nigeria, Tinubu is a veteran politician who previously served as the governor of Lagos State. He represents the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Organisations:

  • Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Nigeria: A German non-profit foundation that promotes social democracy, the FES Nigeria office supports programs aimed at strengthening democracy, good governance, and social justice.

Movements:

#BringBackOurGirls: A movement that emerged in response to the 2014 kidnapping of over 200 schoolgirls by Boko Haram in Chibok, Nigeria. The movement advocates for the rescue of the abducted girls and for an end to violence against women and girls.

#EndSARS: A decentralised social movement that gained global recognition for its protests against police brutality in Nigeria. The movement demanded an end to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit notorious for human rights abuses.