Youths in Yobe State have criticised the reported purchase of a governorship nomination form for former Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, describing the move as unjustified and unrepresentative of the broader youth population.
The group faulted what it called the actions of “a handful of youths,” insisting that the gesture does not reflect the views of the majority across the state. They argued that Lawan, who has represented Yobe North (Zone C) in the National Assembly since 1999, has not demonstrated sufficient impact on either his constituency or the state to merit such political backing.
Zone C comprises Bade, Jakusko, Karasuwa, Nguru, Machina and Yusufari local government areas.
Several youths, including those from the senatorial zone, questioned the senator’s track record, asking what tangible contributions he has made over his decades in federal legislative service. Lawan served as Senate President from June 2019 to June 2023.
Reacting to reports that about N188 million was contributed by a group popularly referred to as “Ahmed Lawan boys” to purchase the form, a youth political analyst, Abdullahi Mohammed Almajir, expressed doubt over the source of the funds.
He alleged that the contributions may not have come from the individuals as claimed, arguing that many of them lack the financial capacity for such a commitment.
Almajir challenged the group to highlight specific developmental achievements by Lawan, even within a single local government area. He added that, if the funds were genuinely pooled by the youths, they could have been channelled into community development projects such as providing potable water in areas grappling with waterborne diseases.
In a similar vein, a Damaturu-based youth leader, Mustapha Musa, urged young people to resist being used for political mobilisation by leaders they perceive as underperforming.
He called on youths to prioritise accountability and performance as the 2027 general elections approach, particularly in evaluating governorship aspirants.
“We must carefully assess those seeking elective offices and support candidates who have demonstrated genuine commitment to the development of the state, irrespective of political, sectional or religious considerations,” he said.
As political activities gradually build up ahead of the next election cycle, various stakeholders—including youth and women groups, community leaders and political actors—are engaging in consultations on the future leadership of the state.
Observers say the discussions are partly aimed at sustaining and building on the policies and programmes of the current administration under Mai Mala Buni, who is expected to complete his second term in office.
