SIR: Since the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999, there has been an increase in the clamour and agitation for a change of political gladiators in the leadership structure of Nigeria. These agitations were born out of the unending recycling of the older generation of the political class in the governance of our country. Many have complained of the massive failure of the old-generation political class in the governance of the country, which has led to increased social vices, economic failure, mass corruption and infrastructure decay.

The recycling seems unchecked and has entrenched itself in the Nigerian political system so much so that it has created a “Political Monarchy,” a situation in which children of the older political gladiators are suddenly the only choice available for appointments and elective posts like it happened in the just concluded primaries where political sons, biological sons and daughters got elected as flag bearers.

The scenario is unlikely to change; the cry for a paradigm shift in our political governance structure is loud but not backed with necessary action and an attitude that speaks change. While we all agree that the present generation of ruling class has failed Nigeria with their economic mismanagement and total assassination of integrity, it is also worthy of note that the Nigerian youths, too, are only interested in jumping on the bandwagon regarding the call for leadership change but have been unable to take requisite action to back up the call. This has led to my asking this simple question, “Are the youths really asking for change?”

The average Nigerian youth has misplaced his or her priority; this has enabled the older generation ruling class to break into their ranks and manipulate them into doing their biddings.

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The high level of unemployment and economic zigzagging today has also resulted in the availability of the youth populace as willing tools in the hands of the political class over the years.  What do they get in return? Unemployment rate is projected to reach around 53.00 percent and 51.00 percent in 2023, according to our econometric models. So, who is losing?

The way forward for the Nigerian youth is narrow, tedious and involves a paradigm shift. No one will give the mantle of leadership to the younger generation on a platter. In order to end the argument of political immaturity and inexperience, the younger generation should as a matter of urgency form a formidable force against the older generation who refused to retire from politics. This is possible through collaborative effort like using technology for political mobilisation and participation, especially as 2023 general elections are approaching.  Speaking with one voice today, can redefine the political space in our favour.

The use of social media in social engagement, political engagement is a revolution and an idea whose time has come as postulated by Victor Hugo.  The digital strategy has been a lifeline of the campaign for young people. Recall during the #EndSars saga, it was beautifully deployed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc.

Social media influence on politics has attracted much attention, and that is why the Labour Party (LP), and the supporters of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, are deploying it effectively. The majority of those spreading the “Obidient” gospel are youths who form a major demographic in the voting population. How far they can go in the 2023 polls is another question, but it is not going to be business as usual as the LP candidate is seen as a fresh face, different from the candidates of the two major parties. Even if Obi does not win the presidential election, he would have made the impact to give people the courage that they can make a change in the future.

The good thing about it is that the youths connect on social media and regroup in the streets just like they did during EndSars. It’s really influential even though not all who engage in social media for political campaigns have their PVC; but the drum beat about their dreams and aspirations is loud and clear.

I urge the youths to continue with this kind of social mobilisation. It might not work in 2023, but then it would become a formidable force in future to change the existing narrative.

• Alifia Sunday, Port Harcourt, Rivers State