By Palma Ileye
Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, has called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, academia, youths, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to tackle drug abuse, youth vulnerability and electoral violence ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
The FCT Command Public Relations Officer (PRO), DSC Monica Ojobi, disclosed this in a statement yesterday, noting that Odumosu made the call while delivering a keynote address at the Fifth International Conference of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Abuja, themed: “Drug Abuse, Youth and Electoral Violence in Nigeria: Pathways to a Credible and Violence-Free 2027 General Election.”
The conference attracted notable participants, including former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, who presented the lead paper, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, policymakers, diplomats, security experts, development partners and students.
Speaking on the conference theme, the Commandant described drug abuse as a growing national security challenge that fuels violent crimes, political thuggery and electoral violence, stressing that addressing the menace requires a whole-of-society approach.
According to him, “Drug abuse among youths in Nigeria has evolved beyond being merely a public health concern. It has become a significant national security challenge with far-reaching consequences for social stability, crime and democratic governance.”
He noted that although many young Nigerians face unemployment, poverty and social exclusion, the overwhelming majority remain peaceful, innovative and patriotic, adding that they should be empowered as partners in democratic development rather than exploited as instruments of violence.
The FCT boss reaffirmed the commitment of the NSCDC to supporting peaceful, transparent and credible elections through intelligence-led operations, protection of electoral infrastructure and critical national assets, collaboration with other security agencies, community engagement and sustained public enlightenment.
He urged governments at all levels, educational institutions, parents, political leaders, faith-based organisations, traditional rulers, the media and civil society groups to intensify anti-drug campaigns, expand youth empowerment initiatives, strengthen electoral justice and promote civic education to guarantee a peaceful electoral process in 2027.
Odumosu also challenged universities to continue producing evidence-based research and policy recommendations that would strengthen democratic governance and national security, while encouraging young people to embrace responsible political participation.
Reaffirming the Corps’ commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting critical national assets and supporting lawful democratic processes before, during and after the 2027 General Elections, he urged Nigerians to build a nation where ballots—not bullets—determine leadership.
“Together, let us build a Nigeria where ballots—not bullets—determine leadership; where ideas—not intimidation—shape political competition; and where our youths are celebrated as architects of peace rather than instruments of violence,” he said.
He further warned that election periods often witness the recruitment of drug-dependent youths as political thugs because they can easily be manipulated to intimidate opponents, snatch ballot boxes, destroy electoral materials, attack security personnel and disrupt the electoral process.
“We should be more determined than ever to ensure violence-free elections,” he added.
