By Joy Onu
Youths in Kogi State have been urged to exercise caution against politicians who claim to advocate for their interests but fail to create meaningful opportunities for their future. The warning came from Honorable Sunday Maiyaki, state chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), on Wednesday, January 14, during a screening exercise in Lokoja ahead of the October local government elections.
According to a press statement released by the party’s state secretary, Honorable Mamman Akpena, Hon. Maiyaki expressed concern over politicians who, during campaigns, charm young people with slogans like “Youths are the leaders of tomorrow,” while simultaneously obstructing access to high-paying jobs and critical information that could advance their lives.
The ADC chairman emphasized the party’s commitment to youth empowerment, noting that young people are provided with platforms to aspire politically. In a demonstration of this commitment, electoral forms for the upcoming elections were distributed free of charge to youth candidates, reflecting the dedication of both state and national leadership to their development.
“Consider how many gestures like this have occurred in the current political climate in the state and the nation,” Hon. Maiyaki said. “Your parents may have served these leaders, yet now they seek to make you perpetual servants in your own state and country. You can surpass them if you remain steadfast and refuse to let anyone undermine your potential.”
Addressing party chairmen and their deputies vying in the local government elections, Hon. Maiyaki encouraged them to trust their abilities and uphold the highest standards of service at the grassroots level. He reminded participants that most prominent politicians began their careers in local politics, and that their actions today could leave a lasting impact on their communities.
The event concluded with the signing and retrieval of electoral forms from all candidates, marking a key step in ADC’s preparation for the elections and reaffirming the party’s commitment to youth participation and grassroots political engagement in Kogi State
