The Coalition of South-East Youth Leaders, the apex socio-political youth body in the South-East geopolitical zone, has announced plans to embark on a comprehensive “Electoral sensitisation and democratic defence tour” across the South-East zone ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The President General, Coalition of South East Youth Leaders, Goodluck Ibem, disclosed to our correspondent on Tuesday that the initiative is borne out of commitment to the protection of democracy, the sanctity of the ballot, and the fundamental rights of the people as guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He said, “Under Section 14(2)(c) of the Constitution, it is clearly provided that ‘the participation by the people in their government shall be ensured’. Any attempt to rig elections or manipulate electoral outcomes is therefore a direct assault on the Constitution and a betrayal of Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
“Furthermore, Section 1(2) of the Constitution explicitly declares that ‘the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall not be governed… except in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution’. Electoral malpractice, rigging, and undue interference in the electoral process are unconstitutional, illegal, and unacceptable.
“COSEYL will mobilise, educate, and empower citizens across the South East to defend their votes within the ambit of the law. Resist all forms of electoral fraud and manipulation and demand accountability and transparency throughout the electoral process.
“We issue a clear, firm, and unequivocal warning to any individual, group, or institution contemplating any form of electoral malpractice in the South East: Stay off our zone. The will of the people is not negotiable and will not be compromised.”
The group called on all security agencies to be guided strictly by their constitutional responsibilities, adding that “Under Section 215 of the Constitution and other relevant laws, security agencies are mandated to maintain law and order—not to aid or abet illegality”.