As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, Professor Sadiq Umar Gombe, the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has issued a rallying cry to Arewa students and young Nigerians. He implored them to actively engage in the democratic process and strategically utilize their significant voting strength to elect competent, credible, and patriotic leaders who can steer the nation towards a brighter future.
Speaking on Monday during a meeting with the leadership of the Arewa Students Forum at the SDP national headquarters in Abuja, Professor Gombe stressed that young Nigerians can no longer afford to remain indifferent amidst the country’s escalating socio-economic and political challenges. He highlighted the collective power of the students, whom he estimated represent approximately 2.1 million potential votes, urging them to recognize their electoral influence.
The Power of the Youth Vote
Professor Gombe underscored the crucial role their votes could play in determining the outcomes of future elections, noting the often-narrow margins that have separated leading presidential candidates in recent polls. He called upon the students to prioritize electing leaders defined by their character, competence, capacity, patriotism, and unwavering integrity, rather than succumbing to sentiments.
“Leadership is our major problem in this country. When you don’t get it right at the level of leadership, you are not going to get it right at any level or in any sphere of human endeavour,” Gombe asserted, emphasizing that the fundamental issues facing Nigeria stem from its leadership choices.
Beyond Neutrality: Engaging in Electoral Process
While acknowledging the non-partisan nature of the Arewa Students Forum, the SDP chairman clarified that political neutrality should not equate to disengagement from the electoral process. He strongly encouraged the students to become advocates for civic duty, educating their peers on the importance of voter registration and enthusiastic participation in elections.
“You must be committed to educating your peers. Once you are 18 years old, you are eligible to vote. You have to educate your peers so they make the right choice in our elections,” Gombe advised. He further urged them to base their support for candidates solely on their proven competence and track record, transcending ethnic, religious, regional, or partisan divides.
Character Over Academic Credentials
Professor Gombe reiterated the nation’s urgent need for leaders who possess a blend of competence and strong moral character. He cautioned that academic qualifications, while important, are insufficient on their own to guarantee good governance.
Recalling his formative years as a student union leader, Gombe reflected on that period as one of the most fulfilling times of his life, attributing it to the significant impact he had on fellow students and society. He noted that student leaders of his generation actively engaged in robust debates and spearheaded initiatives to address pressing student concerns, including the rising cost of living.
He suggested that many ideas generated by student leaders during his time were often more substantive than current legislative discussions, challenging young Nigerians to cultivate leadership qualities early in life. “Character comes before learning. Learning without character is virtually nothing. Character matters in the life of an individual, community or nation,” he stressed.
Gombe specifically called upon young Nigerians, particularly those residing in the North and the Federal Capital Territory, to leverage democratic participation as a powerful tool for driving positive change. He clarified that his message was not an invitation to join the SDP, but a broader appeal to support any candidate, regardless of their political affiliation, who demonstrates the genuine capacity to deliver effective governance for all Nigerians.