Not-Too-Young-To-Run Law: What Buhari’s assent won’t guarantee for Nigerian youths – Coalition

A coalition of 55 youth organisations across the country under the auspices of the ‘Not Too Young to Run Movement’ has stated that the signing of the age reduction bill into law by President Muhammadu Buhari is not enough to ensure youth representation in political office.

The convener of the group, Mr. Samson Itodo, made this known at a press conference in Abuja on Friday.
He pointed out that internal party democracy, a reduction in cost of politics, affirmative actions for youths as well as credible and peaceful elections are necessary to ensure the emergence of youths as candidates for political offices.

Itodo said, “As we prepare for the 2019 general elections, the imperative for youth inclusion especially as candidates for all elective positions is not a matter for debate but an imperative.
“The movement notes that signing the Age Reduction bill otherwise known as ‘Not Too Young to Run’ bill into law is not sufficient to guarantee youth representation in political office.
“To the political class; if you want the youth vote, reserve tickets for youth aspirants; uphold internal party democracy to safeguard the emergence of more youth candidates and most importantly commit to nonviolent elections.

“Actions should also be expedited towards assenting to electoral reform bills bordering on limiting campaign expenditure and cost of securing Party nominations.
“The movement will continue to mobilize more young people across the country to participate in the ongoing continuous voters registration exercise, collect their PVCs and turn out to vote in all elections. The vision of this movement can only be achieved if young people come out to vote,” Itodo added.