Youth, Persons with Disabilities Must Take Their Place in Politics – Bida

By Awwal Umar Kontagora Comrade Abdurrahman Awwal Bida, Public Relations Officer of the National Disabled Persons Association, h...

By Awwal Umar Kontagora

Comrade Abdurrahman Awwal Bida, Public Relations Officer of the National Disabled Persons Association, has called on youth and people with special needs to recognize their vital role in the political process of Nigeria.

Speaking to newsmen on his interest in joining active politics, Comrade Abdurrahman emphasized the need for greater inclusion and participation, noting that youth and persons with disabilities have equal rights to vote and be elected, just like every other citizen.

“We must understand our importance in the political process. The youth and persons with special needs must rise and strengthen one another to take over leadership roles. Those leading us today were young when they got their chance. If we don't act now, we risk continuing the cycle of exclusion,” he said.

He urged all eligible citizens, especially the youth and persons with disabilities, to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressing the importance of civic responsibility and voter participation.

Abdurrahman noted that political affiliation should be guided by shared values and a commitment to nation-building, not necessarily by support for ruling parties. He revealed that the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has approached him to contest, citing the party’s progressive ideals and the leadership of Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso as key factors in his decision to align with it.

“We are engaging with the people to ensure that those with special needs are not left behind. Politics must be about development and inclusion. Senator Kwankwaso’s track record, particularly in education and healthcare, shows the kind of leadership we need,” he stated.

On the performance of INEC, he expressed cautious optimism: “INEC is making progress, and I have confidence in their recent efforts. But they must do more to ensure free, fair, and credible elections, so that public trust can be restored and strengthened.”

Comrade Abdurrahman concluded by reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance and his belief that change is possible through collective action and informed participation.