Group Seeks End To Electoral Exclusion In Nigeria

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Empowerment for Unemployed Youth Initiative (EUYI), has appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to allow military personnel, NYSC members, and prison inmates to participate in the electoral process.

At a press conference in Abuja, Comrade Danesi Momoh and Comrade Igwe Ude-Umanta, the convener and co-convener of EUYI, respectfully expressed concern over the systemic exclusion of certain groups from voting.

The group leads campaigns for democratic and socioeconomic inclusion in Nigeria and champions the cause of the unemployed, underemployed, and marginalised Nigerians.

Momoh cited the need for inclusivity and fairness in the electoral process to ensure that all Nigerians have a chance to participate in the country’s leadership selection process.

He said, “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.

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“It is also worrisome that despite a 2014 court ruling affirming their right to vote, prison inmates in Nigeria remain disenfranchised.”

EUYI also sought partnerships with INEC 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 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,” Momoh said.