Nigerian youth involves themselves in "blind politics" for a variety of causes, which derive from both personal and societal influences. fundamental reasons why this problem arises is because of lack of political knowledge and education.
Many Nigerian youth lack a thorough understanding of the political system, history, and the necessity of making sound decisions. Meanwhile, a lack of political literacy led many into individuals supporting political leaders or parties without critically examining their programs, actions, or previous performance.
As social media has a significant impact on the political views of Nigerian youth. Political discussions on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and WhatsApp have become increasingly polarized, resulting in the spread of misinformation or half-truths. However, In Nigeria, politics is often deeply intertwined with ethnic and religious identities.
Majority of Nigerian youth engage in politics for personal or material gain rather than out of civic duty or a genuine desire to improve the country which enables politicians to use patronage win support, offering financial incentives, job opportunities, or other forms of assistance.
The consistent political instability, corruption, and economic challenges in Nigeria can foster apathy among youth, making them feel that they do not have a real role or voice in the political process. Some may adopt a "follow the crowd" mentality, becoming passive participants rather than active, informed citizens.
As a result, youth favor leaders who promise rapid benefits, even if those leaders do not have the country's best interests at heart. Many young Nigerians are disillusioned with their country's politics and government.
Frustration also, drives some people to blindly support political groupings or leaders in the hopes of bringing about change, even if they are unclear of what those leaders genuinely believe. They may assume that any change is preferable to the status quo, thus they vote or support candidates without thoroughly researching their agendas.
Political campaigns in Nigeria are mainly based on emotional appeals, misinformation, and, in some cases, fraudulent promises. Youth who are not discerning readily fall prey to these approaches, acquiring political opinions based on false information
or persuasive but unsubstantiated rhetoric.
Many young people believe that the major political parties and politicians do not reflect their interests or provide viable alternatives. They as a result blindly support politicians or movements that claim to effect change, even when they do not fully comprehend the promised answers.
The desire for change in Nigeria sometimes lead youth to support any political party or leader that looks to provide a new perspective, even if their policies or leadership style are unclear. This frequently occurs when young people are thirsty for advancement and have no other feasible options.
Can we break the cycle of blind politics?
To overcome blind politics, Nigeria's youth must prioritize education and critical thinking. They must seek out credible sources of information, engage in political discourse, and hold their leaders accountable. Nigerian youth must cultivate a politically informed and active citizenship to guarantee that the next generation of leaders is chosen based on skill and integrity rather than ethnicity, religion, or hollow promises.
Abioye Tosin Lawrence is the publisher of Oriontimes Online Newspaper, a dogged comrade, campaigner hate-against-nigeria.
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