Uzodimma charges youths on active political participation
The governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, has called on Nigerians especially youths to actively participate in Nigeria’s political development.
Uzodimma made the call at the Democracy Day lecture organised in commemoration of June 12 in Abuja on Thursday.
The governor said democracy does not rely on institutions alone—but requires the active participation of citizens — people who will vote, ask questions, and write and engage.
Uzodimma added “Young Nigerians must see themselves as part of this system. They must see themselves as participants, not mere spectators. You inherited the right earned in 1993.You must also inherit the responsibilities they are there. Change comes from active participation, not docility. There is also the matter of political will”.
He stated that no constitution or system, no matter how perfect, can enforce itself or resist manipulation without principled actors.
The governor said, “At critical moments, leaders must choose a direction. Not every choice will be popular, but it must always be defensible in terms of public interest and national stability.We have had that kind of leadership now. We have this leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, one that understands the difference between strength and stubbornness, one that can hold institutions accountable without weakening them, one that listens, not just reacts, one that is answerable to the people”.
Uzodimma, who is also the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, stated that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund was expanding access to higher education, ensuring that no willing student was denied the opportunity due to poverty.
