The Empowerment for Unemployed Youth Initiative (EUYI) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that all eligible citizens, including military personnel, NYSC members, and prison inmates, are allowed to participate in the electoral process.
EUYI, a front line right group has been at the forefront of championing democratic and socioeconomic inclusion in Nigeria and jas been the lead advocacy group for the unemployed, underemployed, and marginalized Nigerian masses.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Comrade Danesi Momoh Prince and Comrade Igwe Ude-umanta , Convener and Co-Convener of EUYI respectfully, expressed concern over the systemic exclusion of certain groups from voting.
EUYI cited the need for inclusivity and fairness in the electoral process to ensure that all Nigerians are given a chance to participate in the leadership selection process in the country.
The group noted that “despite their crucial roles in safeguarding electoral integrity, military personnel, NYSC members, and INEC staff are often denied the opportunity to vote due to their deployment to various locations on election duty.
“It is also worrisome that despite a 2014 court ruling affirming their right to vote, prison inmates in Nigeria remain disenfranchised.
In a bit to foster collaboration towards inclusive voting rights, EUYI called on INEC to partner with them and other eligible civil rights groups to conduct special registration exercises for these Nigerians.
“We believe that full electoral participation will strengthen democracy, enhance governance, and uphold the principles of fairness and justice.
“Our advocacy is rooted in the fundamental belief that true democracy can only thrive when every eligible citizen is granted the opportunity to participate in the electoral process, regardless of their socioeconomic status or background. This has informed our drive for policies that ensure all persons have the resources and means to vote.
“With our wealth of experience and capacity in driving voter education and advocacy, it is our firm conviction that if this partnership pulls through, it’ll be a huge success and the 2027 general election will be the best in the history of Nigeria”, the text concluded
