The recently concluded Plateau Youth Council (PYC) elections have sparked widespread controversy, with accusations of government interference, manipulation, and imposition of a candidate from Mangu Local Government Area (LGA). What was intended to be a democratic process for electing youth leaders was allegedly said to be diverted, with claims that the elections were marred by coercion, corruption, and political machinations.
Some Critics have condemned the elections as a “charade,” likening the process to an autocratic regime, where decisions were allegedly made by a few powerful individuals within the Plateau State Government. According to several reports, it suggests that top government officials, including commissioners and political appointees, were involved in directing the electoral committee (Elcom), selecting handpicked delegates, and orchestrating the victory of the Mangu candidate.
In a statement issued by social crusader Munatare Munashak, the elections were described as a violation of the principles of fairness and youth autonomy. “What was supposed to be a purely youth affair, free from partisan politics and government interference, has become the most autocratic, coercive, and manipulative election in the history of the PYC,” Munashak said. He further alleged that millions of naira in public funds were funneled into the accounts of key figures to ensure the election of the Mangu candidate.
The election, which was held under the supervision of Dr. Philip Nyango and other officials, has been criticized for its lack of transparency. Munashak accused these officials of executing the “Mangu Agenda,” a scheme purportedly designed to consolidate power within the LGA. According to sources, government vehicles and security personnel were used to transport the Mangu candidate to the venue, underscoring the alleged heavy involvement of the state government in the process.
This alleged imposition of the Mangu candidate has been met with mixed feelings, particularly from youths in Bokkos LGA, who feel marginalized by the Plateau State Government. Bokkos representatives had reportedly called for a fair and transparent election, but their pleas were ignored. “The voice of reason from Bokkos people was jettisoned. Veterans of the larger house, who tried to guide the process, were sidelined,” Munashak lamented.
The resultant election result has led to political tensions between Mangu and Bokkos LGAs as a result of the PYC election outcome. The Bokkos community accuses the PDP-led government of sidelining their interests, pointing to a series of actions that have diminished their political influence. Among the grievances listed by Bokkos representatives are the removal of prominent Bokkos sons from key positions, such as the Vice-Chancellor of Plateau State University (PLASU), and the alleged diversion of funds meant for the LGA’s development.
As the Bokkos community prepares for the upcoming LGA elections on October 9, there is growing discontent over what they describe as a pattern of exclusion by the state government. “Despite the support Bokkos gave to bring this government into power, they have taken everything away from us,” said a Bokkos youth leader, referencing the government’s refusal to support local businesses and failure to address security concerns i n the LGA.
Munashak warned that the imposed leadership of the PYC may face legal challenges, with lawsuits expected to be filed against the newly elected chairman. “This flawed process will not stand. Legal fireworks are on the horizon, and those responsible for this charade will be held accountable,” he stated.
The aftermath of the PYC elections has left a deep rift between the youth of Mangu and Bokkos LGAs, with accusations that a small group of individuals within the government is driving a wedge between the two communities. As the Plateau State Government continues to face criticism, political analysts warn that the fallout from this election could have long-term repercussions for the administration, especially with the youth feeling increasingly disillusioned.
The Plateau Youth Council election saga has led to broader frustrations with the state government, highlighting concerns about governance, transparency, and the influence of political elites on grassroots processes.
