In Nigeria, a “tout” refers to an individual who acts as a political thug or enforcer, often employed by politicians to carry out acts of intimidation, violence, or electoral malpractices. These touts are typically young men and women who may have aspirations for leadership positions in the future but find themselves caught in a web of manipulation and exploitation.
One of the main reasons why future leaders in Nigeria become touts is the lack of viable economic opportunities and the prevalence of poverty. Many young Nigerians struggle to find meaningful employment or access quality education, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation by politicians who offer financial incentives or promises of support in exchange for their loyalty and services.
Political touts are often recruited and mobilized during election campaigns. They are used to intimidate opponents, disrupt opposition rallies, engage in electoral fraud, and even incite violence. Politicians take advantage of the frustrations and disillusionment of these young individuals, portraying themselves as saviors and offering them a sense of belonging and purpose within their political machinery.
Additionally, the absence of strong institutions and effective governance mechanisms contributes to the problem. Weak law enforcement and a lack of accountability allow politicians to exploit and manipulate future leaders without facing significant consequences. This perpetuates a cycle of corruption and abuse of power, further entrenching the culture of political touting.
Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves creating economic opportunities and providing quality education and skills training for young Nigerians, empowering them to pursue legitimate paths to leadership and success. Strengthening institutions and promoting good governance practices is crucial to ensuring accountability and deterring politicians from engaging in exploitative behavior.
Furthermore, raising awareness about the negative consequences of political touting and fostering a culture of civic engagement and active citizenship can help young Nigerians recognize their own agency and resist being used as pawns by politicians.
Ultimately, breaking the cycle of future leaders becoming touts requires a comprehensive effort to address the root causes of poverty, inequality, and weak governance while promoting a culture of ethical and responsible leadership in Nigeria.
