As Nigeria approaches the General Elections, a clarion call is being issued to young Nigerians across the nation: embrace peace, truth, responsible civic engagement, and refuse to be used as instruments of violence or misinformation.
With more than 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 35, the youth remain the country’s most powerful democratic force. The decisions made today will shape the nation’s future for generations.
A lesson must be learned from the story of a promising Nigerian youth, Tilewa Adewale Ogunsola, a renowned actor from Ile-Ife in Osun State, Known for his boldness both on and off screen, he produced many movies that challenged political misconduct, calling out corruption, neglect, and unfulfilled promises, His commitment to truth earned him admiration, yet also exposed him to significant controversy and danger.
Adewale’s journey serves as an important cautionary example, His outspoken roles brought serious repercussions, reminding us that while freedom of speech is a fundamental right, words spoken in anger or without caution can carry unintended consequences, At one point, threats to his life became so severe that he resorted to various disguises for his safety,
It reached a point where Adewale had to live in ways completely opposite to his usual lifestyle, including dressing as the opposite sex and practicing gay in order to survive.
On July 1st, 2017, in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Adewale and his gay partner were brutally beaten, an attack that tragically led to the death of his partner. Adewale managed to escape.
Opinions about his ordeal remain divided: some people believe Adewale confronted the system the wrong way instead of using his Voter’s Card, which eventually pushed him into this situation. Others argue that it was his gay lifestyle that made him vulnerable, causing him to become invisible and forcing him to remain on the run till today.
Today, millions of Nigerian youth command a digital voice louder and more far-reaching than any movie screen, Social media has given young people global influence, instant reach, and the power to shape public opinion within minutes, This power must be exercised responsibly.
The lesson is clear:
Use your voice to build, not destroy.
Use your platform for truth, not misinformation.
Use your influence for peace, not hate.
Use your Voter’s Card as your power, not as a bargaining tool.
As the nation prepares for another crucial electoral season, Nigerian youth are urged to verify information before sharing it, reject political manipulation, and refuse to engage in violence, online or offline, A peaceful and credible election is impossible without the integrity and vigilance of young citizens.
Nigeria’s democracy does not rest solely on the actions of its leaders. It depends on the discipline, maturity, and sense of responsibility displayed by its youth. The world is watching, The future is calling. And the power to shape that future lies firmly in the hands of young Nigerians
