POWA President warns Nigerian youths against political violence

A Call to Reject Political Exploitation

The National President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Chief Mrs. Mutiat Olufunmilola Disu, has urged Nigerian youths to reject political thuggery and other forms of violence. Speaking at the International Youth Day 2026 National Youth Leadership & Security Initiative, she warned that the future of the younger generation should not be sacrificed for the political ambitions of others.

Disu cautioned young Nigerians against allowing politicians and other interests to exploit their energy and vulnerability for violent activities. She emphasized that youths must recognize that their lives, talents, ideas, and aspirations are far more valuable than becoming tools for civil unrest or political confrontation.

Your future is too valuable to be rented out. Do not allow anyone to use your youth as a weapon and leave you to face the consequences alone.

— Chief Mrs. Mutiat Olufunmilola Disu, National President, Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA)

Choosing Purpose Over Political Thuggery

Speaking from the dual perspective of a mother and a leader within the police community, Disu expressed concern over the growing trend of luring young people into violence with promises of material benefits. She noted that participation in the democratic process should never translate into violent confrontation, asserting that young Nigerians can support diverse candidates without becoming enemies.

She challenged the youth to deploy their voices, skills, and votes to shape the country's political landscape. Disu specifically warned against involvement in cultism, cybercrime, and hate speech, which she identified as activities capable of undermining personal futures and threatening national security.

Whenever anyone asks you to choose between violence and your future, remember: your future is greater than political thuggery.

— Chief Mrs. Mutiat Olufunmilola Disu, National President, Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA)

Digital Responsibility and the Power of Information

The POWA president raised significant concerns regarding the security implications of misinformation and the irresponsible use of social media. She urged young Nigerians to develop the habit of verifying information before sharing it online, noting that manipulated content could inflame communities and damage reputations.

Disu encouraged the youth to channel their energy into constructive sectors such as education, entrepreneurship, technology, and creative expression. She maintained that peaceful participation remains essential to building a safer society and ensuring that every young person can return home safely to their families.

Your phone is powerful. Use it to build, not to destroy.

— Chief Mrs. Mutiat Olufunmilola Disu, National President, Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA)

Strengthening National Youth Leadership

The International Youth Day 2026 programme, organized by the Nigeria Police Force, served as a platform for engagement on responsible citizenship and innovation. The three-day initiative, which ran from August 20 to 22, 2026, focused on strengthening partnerships between the police and the youth to promote a safer democratic environment.

By providing a space for dialogue on national development and security, the initiative aimed to produce a generation of leaders who understand the responsibilities attached to their roles. Disu concluded by reminding the attendees that despite different backgrounds, all Nigerian youths share a common desire for dignity, opportunity, and a country where their dreams can become reality.