“Democracy Must Not Be Defined By Fear”: YAN Enugu Condemns Political Violence And Exorbitant Campaign Fees Ahead Of 2027

ENUGU, NIGERIA — As political maneuvering intensifies ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), Enugu State Chapter, has issued a stern condemnation regarding political violence, intimidation, and financial barriers targeting opposition groups across Enugu State.

​Speaking on behalf of the organization, the State Ambassador of YAN Enugu, Amb. Chidubem Ugwueze JP, addressed recent reports and video footage alleging physical attacks on political opposition gatherings in the Akpugo and Obe communities of Nkanu West Local Government Area. Calling for immediate intervention from the Enugu State Government, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and federal security agencies, YAN emphasized that political disagreements must be resolved through democratic dialogue rather than thuggery and intimidation.

​Beyond physical safety, the youth body raised alarm over the commercialization of political participation. YAN highlighted exorbitant outdoor advertising charges—such as billboard permits reaching tens to hundreds of millions of naira across the South-East—warning that weaponizing regulatory fees creates financial barriers designed to exclude young leaders and emerging political movements.

​To protect democratic integrity, YAN Enugu outlined four key demands:

​Impartial Investigations: Swift legal action against perpetrators of political violence in Akpugo, Obe, and affected LGAs.

​Security Coverage: Equal protection for all lawful political gatherings and campaign activities across party lines.

​Level Playing Field: Neutrality from security agencies and electoral bodies to prevent the suppression of opposition voices.

​Fair Advertising Regulations: A comprehensive review of campaign advertising fees to encourage youth inclusion in governance.

​Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful civic engagement, YAN Enugu urged all political actors to reject violence and hate speech, asserting that the electorate must be allowed to choose their leaders freely without fear of coercion.