Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said 50 percent of young Nigerians do not have voter cards, despite growing calls for him to return to politics. He urged young people to participate actively in the electoral process by registering and collecting their cards. Jonathan emphasized that voter apathy continues to undermine democratic engagement across the country. His remarks were made in response to a pro-group advocating for his political comeback. He questioned the credibility of such appeals given the low level of youth voter registration. Without voter cards, he noted, many young people are excluded from influencing political outcomes. Jonathan did not announce any intention to contest future elections. He stressed that political participation begins with civic responsibility, including voter registration. The statement was issued on Thursday, May 8.
Jonathan highlights that half of Nigeria's youth lack voter cards while being asked to back his return to politics. This undermines the legitimacy of any youth-driven campaign calling for his candidacy. If 50% are not even registered, their collective political voice remains symbolic rather than substantive. Their influence cannot match their numbers without basic electoral inclusion.
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