The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), Enugu State Chapter, has condemned alleged attacks on members and supporters of opposition political parties in parts of Enugu State, calling for urgent investigations and a level playing field ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group, led by its State Ambassador, Amb. Chidubem JP, raised the concern following reports and viral video footage alleging attacks involving political supporters in Akpugo and Obe communities in Nkanu West Local Government Area.
YAN called on the Enugu State Government, Nigeria Police Force, other security agencies, INEC and the Federal Government to take steps to guarantee peaceful, credible and inclusive political activities across the state.
According to the group, political disagreements are an essential part of democracy but must never degenerate into violence, intimidation or harassment.
“We condemn every act of political violence, intimidation or harassment, regardless of the political party or individuals involved,” Chidubem said.
YAN urged security agencies to conduct impartial investigations into the reported incidents, identify anyone found culpable and ensure that the law is applied fairly.
Democracy Must Not Be Built on Fear
The youth organisation maintained that the 2027 elections should be determined by the choices of the people rather than intimidation or political violence.
It called for adequate security protection for lawful political meetings, campaigns and gatherings, irrespective of political affiliation.
YAN also urged political parties and their supporters to reject violence, hate speech, provocation and political thuggery, while calling on security agencies to remain neutral and professional.
YAN Raises Concern Over Cost of Political Participation
The group further expressed concern over the rising financial cost of political participation, particularly reports of high charges for billboards, outdoor advertising and other campaign-related activities.
Chidubem warned that excessive or unexplained charges could make political participation accessible mainly to wealthy candidates and discourage young people and emerging political movements.
“Democracy should give every qualified citizen an opportunity to participate, not create financial barriers that discourage young people and ordinary citizens from coming forward,” he said.
YAN therefore called for transparency in all campaign-related fees and regulations, urging authorities to ensure that such charges are reasonable, properly authorised and applied fairly.
Seven-Point Demand
The Assembly called for:
- Immediate and impartial investigation into reported political attacks in Enugu.
- Adequate security for all lawful political activities.
- A level playing field for all parties and candidates ahead of 2027.
- Political neutrality by security agencies.
- Transparency and fairness in billboard and outdoor advertising charges.
- Protection of young people's participation in politics.
- Continuous dialogue among government, political parties, civil society and youth organisations to promote peaceful elections.
YAN Enugu said the political future of the state should be anchored on peace, justice, fairness, accountability and respect for democratic choices, rather than fear and exclusion.
The group stressed that 2027 must be an election of ideas, competence and the people's choice—not one defined by violence, intimidation or financial exclusion.
