The Unemployed Youth Initiative has urged the federal government to allow members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to exercise their voting rights during elections. The group also included workers of the Independent National Electoral Commission, security personnel, and prison inmates.
During elections, personnel from INEC, security forces, and NYSC members, among others, carry out election responsibilities in the country, preventing them from being able to vote themselves.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, the Convener of UYI, Comrade Danesi Momoh criticized the exclusion of these groups from voting. He questioned why the officials tasked with conducting free and fair elections are not allowed to vote during these elections.
Additionally, Momoh noted that the continuous exclusion of these essential segments of the population undermines Nigeria’s dedication to democratic principles.
According to him, this disenfranchisement further raises concerns about the fairness, credibility, and inclusiveness of elections in the country. Moreover, Momoh explained that it is an infringement on their fundamental human right to vote.
As a result, this disenfranchisement subdues the rights of youths who should be active participants in decisions that shape the future of their country. Therefore, UYI urged the government to address this urgently through special voting arrangements that cater to election workers.
In addition, the group stated that the exclusion of prison inmates from voting is a violation of their constitutional rights. To back this claim, Momoh cited a 2014 court ruling that affirmed the voting rights of inmates.
Furthermore, the UYI stated that INEC and other relevant authorities have not implemented the court ruling, resulting in the disenfranchisement of thousands of eligible voters. The group stressed that the neglect fuels discrimination against incarcerated individuals, many in prolonged pre-trial detention without conviction.
