By Elvira Jordan
The Rivers First Movement has called on Rivers State youths and other voters to approach the 2027 general elections with greater political awareness and deliberate decision-making, warning that the choices made at the polls could shape the state’s direction for the next decade.
Spokesperson of the group, Nubari Saatah,Saatah made the call while speaking on the preparedness of Rivers people for the 2027 elections, saying the state’s prevailing political and socio-economic realities had heightened political consciousness among citizens.
According to him, Rivers people are “very much ready” for the elections, but he cautioned that the campaign period could either strengthen the political awareness that has developed or undermine it.
He urged political actors and their supporters to conduct their campaigns responsibly and avoid rhetoric capable of creating division, fear and violence.
Youths Have a Critical Role
Also speaking on the role of youths in the coming election, Saatah said youths, who constitute one of the largest demographic groups in Rivers State, have a particularly important role to play in determining the state’s political future.
He described young people as “protectors” of the present and “custodians” of the future of Rivers State, urging them to recognise the consequences of their political decisions.
He said the choices made by Rivers youths in 2027 would have implications for the direction of the state over the following decade.
Saatah therefore called on youths to be deliberate in their political participation and to consider the broader interests of the state when deciding who and what to support during the election.
Four Pillars for Peaceful Elections
On how Rivers State can achieve free, fair and peaceful elections, Saatah identified political actors, electoral institutions, security agencies and voters as key stakeholders in the process.
He urged political actors to exercise restraint throughout the electioneering period and avoid inflammatory or violent rhetoric. He also called on political leaders to control their supporters and discourage conduct capable of provoking violence.
Saata further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain impartiality and take actions that would strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
He said it was not enough for the electoral commission to be impartial; its conduct must also demonstrate fairness to all participants and reassure citizens that the electoral process is being administered without bias.
The Rivers First Movement spokesperson also charged security agencies to be proactive rather than reactive during the electioneering period.
According to him, security personnel should identify potential threats early, prevent violence and ensure that political actors and their supporters operate within the law.
