GEJ or Buhari... Why February 14 is in Nigerian students' hands

As expected, students would throng out, receive the gifts and maybe, just maybe, some would have a change of hearts toward the candidate in question.

Fast-forward to months and years later, the students are still facing the same problems while the school fees are rising, students are protesting but no one would be listening.

If one assumes that students are ignorant of their power, in numbers and intellectual capacity, it would be closer to the truth than truth itself. The large population is made up of mostly eligible voters, intellectually and politically conscious.

The student population, loosely led by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), could be potent powers force that political figures would have no option than to bow to.

But do students recognise their powers? Do they even consider themselves as one? Would they ignore the lure of inducements and socio-cultural sentiments in coming together?

Most likely, the answer is No — herein is the problem of the youth and students.

As the February 14th date approaches, both President Goodluck Jonathan and his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government and the Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) party has promised heaven and earth, seeking Nigerians, students', support.

Same goes for the politicians running for elective positions all over the country, they have spoken like a governorship aspirant in Abia State, Sir Chikwe Udensi, who promised to deliver free education, subsidize education materials and award bursaries and scholarships to students of the state if elected.

Promises are good, but actions are better.

Students must act as one force if the fortunes of the education sector must improve.

If would have been good if students can engage the government and aspirants, like the students of Hong Kong who have pressured their leaders to near submission, and demand signed agreements before dishing out their votes, it would go a long way.

Well, I have decided to vote with a conscience and I urge every student to do the same.

Whoever casts his vote based on sentiments is only being part of the destruction of the country.

Students should approach the ballot boxes with education in their mind.