By Aduwo Ayodele

Students at the University of Ibadan have urged the 18 political flag bearers contesting in the forthcoming 2023 general election poll to prioritize addressing issues of concern, which would drive Nigeria ahead of its myriads of challenges. 

Making the admonition on Saturday at the Communication and Language Art  Postgraduate room, during a virtual town hall series with the presidential candidates, students called on all presidential candidates to rather direct their energy on issues of concern affecting the nation. 

Speaking with Indy Press, a final year student of Economics and Secretary General,  National Association of Nigerian Students, Oyo axis, Mustapha Oluwakayode pointed out the need for candidates to be committed to the indivisibility of  Nigeria’s unity.

“I advise that they embrace brotherhood. Candidates should be  peaceful and law-abiding themselves.” 

Another student, Somtochukwu Obirija, a 100-level student of Pharmacy called on willing candidates who have shown their interest to address existential challenges such as moribund institutions, failed public services, endemic corruption, fragile unity, and insecurity.

“It is lovely to see that youths are intentional about leadership, who take positions  of power now.”  

“As we proceed into the elections,” he said, “the candidates should be more interested in tackling existential challenges”. 

Also, a 100-level student of History department, Faith Adeniran cautioned against disruptive actions before and during the election. “They should try to engage in violence-free elections. Let the people decide.”  

“Democracy has given power to the people, let them exercise their power by choosing who they want to invest their power in for each of the political offices,”  he said.