By Tuoyo Ofuyaekpone
As the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP congress approaches in Delta State, conventional political pundits might expect a waning of youth participation. However, recent news reports suggest otherwise, highlighting the rise of get-out-the-vote social media groups and youth-friendly campaign technologies. These measures point toward a potential democratic renewal in Delta State.
Following the 2023 general election, many analysts noted the mobilization of a new generation of voters, with opposition parties aiming to wrestle power from the Peoples’ Democratic Party that has held sway in the state since the return to democracy in 1999. With this in mind, a greater chunk of Delta PDP stakeholders are calling for a youthful state chairman to lead the party going forward.
According to them, it is time for a new generation of leaders to step up and take the reins. Delta State PDP needs a chairman who can serve as a bridge between the old and the young and who can simply understand the needs and concerns of young people and work to address them. Together, the young and old can build a brighter future for Delta State.
The just concluded elections in Delta state saw a surge in youth participation, both online and on the ground. With almost 40% of Deltans between the ages of 15 and 39, their recognition of the democratic power they hold has undoubtedly increased.
Increased youth participation in the discourse and campaigns leading up to the last elections can be attributed to socio-economic problems, including high youth unemployment and incessant university strikes. Young people made up around 76% of newly registered voters, with 40% of that number identifying as students.
The recognition of the youth voting bloc became increasingly apparent in the three weeks between the last presidential and state elections. The opposition Labor Party’s victory in Delta state during the presidential election was partly attributed to the showing of urban youth. Other candidates also made overtures to young people elsewhere in the country. The youth vote has become a powerful force in Delta state politics, and their engagement is a positive step towards a more inclusive and representative democracy.
Delta youth are leading the charge in demanding accountability and playing a significant part in the maturing of Nigeria’s democracy. Any attempts by political elites to cede the State Party Chairmanship position to the old brigades would be counterproductive. Let’s not forget the millions of Delta youth in rural areas whose voices are seldom heard. Recognizing and strengthening the role of Delta’s youth in its democracy requires holistic measures that leave no segment of the population behind. For political systems to be representative, all parts of society must be included. Let’s work together to cultivate a new crop of political leaders that could help the party return to winning ways.
Delta State’s Peoples’ Democratic Party needs a young, vibrant, and charismatic leader to step up and make a difference. Inclusive political participation is crucial for building stable and peaceful societies, and youth active contributions can bring democratic values to life.
The party desirous of making progress in this new era must break away from the old order by electing a young, loyal party man with character, integrity, and competency to emerge as the next State Party Chairman. Emotional intelligence and other essential skill-sets are a must-have for this crucial role.
Thankfully, the youth-friendly governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori understands the importance of promoting young leaders and will not condone any destabilization of democratisation. All eminent stakeholders have a role to play in steering the ship of the party in this new dispensation.
Let’s give young people the opportunity to lead in this crucial stage in our chequered history. Together, we can develop policies that respond to the specific needs of younger generations and build a better future for all. Remember, a stitch in time saves nine!
•Tuoyo, a Peoples’
Democratic Party Stalwart, writes from Warri.