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Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep concern over the growing frustration among Nigerian youths regarding governance, electoral integrity, and worsening economic conditions. In a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Atiku revealed that he recently met with a delegation of young Nigerians from across the 19 northern states, led by Alhaji Adamu Bappa Gombe, who voiced their disillusionment with the current state of the nation.
“Every time they come to have a conversation with me about bad governance, fraudulent elections, and the resultant hardship being faced by citizens, I deeply feel sad about the situation,” Atiku stated.
The youths reportedly lamented that their votes no longer seem to count, and that poor governance and economic mismanagement are severely impacting their livelihoods, businesses, and future prospects. Atiku noted that the prevailing sense of hopelessness among young Nigerians is alarming and could lead to increased voter apathy, which he warned would only strengthen anti-democratic forces.
“I am extremely concerned at how young Nigerians are losing hope about the future of our country,” he added.
Atiku urged Nigerian youths not to lose faith in democracy, emphasizing that meaningful change can only be achieved through active participation in the electoral process. He called on them to prepare to “take back the ballot” in the 2027 general elections and to remain engaged in shaping the future of Nigeria.