NYA Rallies Nigerians For Protests, Decries Leadership Failure

The National Youth Alliance (NYA) has called for nationwide protests against what it described as attempts by the ruling party to weaken opposition voices ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that Nigerians are bearing the brunt of political inaction.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Kaduna, NYA Youth President, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas, criticised both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition leaders for what he termed a “cold handling” of pressing national issues.

The statement, signed by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, comes amid plans by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other opposition figures to address recent developments within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

While acknowledging the importance of dialogue, the group dismissed the planned press conference as insufficient in addressing the country’s deepening crises.
“This moment in Nigeria demands far more than routine press briefings and political formalities,” the statement said.

NYA argued that Nigeria is at a “critical crossroads,” with millions of citizens, especially young people, struggling under insecurity, economic hardship, and what it described as a growing sense of abandonment.

The group challenged political leaders across divides to move beyond statements and adopt more decisive actions, including organising peaceful nationwide protests, initiating collective prayers and fasting, and demonstrating personal sacrifices that reflect solidarity with citizens.

According to the group, anything short of such measures risks being seen as political routine rather than genuine leadership.

“It is deeply concerning that while political actors swiftly align and realign when power is at stake, the same urgency is often absent when confronting existential challenges such as insecurity and the protection of lives,” the statement added.

NYA further warned that continued inaction could reinforce public distrust, accusing many political leaders of losing direction at a time when decisive leadership is most needed.

“The truth must be told: many of our political leaders, both in government and in opposition, have lost direction. What Nigeria urgently requires now is a new generation of leaders, bold, selfless, and committed to protecting the people above personal or political interests,” it stated.

The group concluded by urging immediate action, noting that history would judge leaders not by their statements but by their courage and willingness to make sacrifices.
“The youth of this nation are watching. The time to act is now.”