Former Jigawa State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Sule Lamido, has criticized the use of Nigerian youths as political foot soldiers, saying they should instead be prepared for leadership.
Lamido spoke in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, on Sunday during activities marking his 78th birthday.
He said political leaders had failed to provide adequate mentorship and character development for young Nigerians, leaving many exposed to political activities centered on abuse, hatred, and violence.
“We have abandoned Nigerian youths in terms of moulding them, character formation, and inculcating brotherhood, sisterhood, and human empathy,” Lamido said.
He questioned why young Nigerians were being used as “political machinery and political laborers” when they would eventually inherit leadership responsibilities.
Lamido urged politicians to teach youths political ideology, sacrifice, and public service rather than mobilizing them to attack opponents, engage in online abuse, or fight political battles.
He also called on youths across political parties, including the PDP, APC, and ADC, to avoid treating one another as enemies.
“You share so much in common as a youth. Therefore, while you are in your own political party, you should not be enemies,” he said.
The former governor said political leaders should invest in the education, employment, mentorship, and character development of young Nigerians to prepare them for responsible leadership.
His comments came as political activities intensify ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
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