The Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has issued a stern warning to Nigerian youths, urging them to reject violence and political thuggery as the nation approaches future electoral cycles. Speaking at the International Youth Day 2026 National Youth Leadership and Security Initiative, he emphasized that no political ambition justifies sacrificing their lives or futures.
Azare encouraged young Nigerians to adopt the campaign slogan “My Future Is Greater Than Political Thuggery” as a guiding principle, stressing that politics should represent a contest of ideas and service rather than a violent battlefield. He acknowledged that despite diverse backgrounds, Nigerian youths share common aspirations for education, employment, security, justice and equal opportunity.
The police chief also addressed digital responsibility, urging youths to “Think Before You Click, Verify Before You Share” to combat misinformation, cyberbullying and manipulated media. He warned that those engaging in cybercrimes would face legal consequences regardless of their status or connections.
A significant highlight of the event was the launch of the “ONE TO TELL TEN” Youth Engagement Programme, designed to amplify positive security messages across communities. Azare commended Governor Pastor Umo Eno for integrating youth leadership structures into the state’s security framework, signaling a proactive approach to preventing electoral violence.
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