The Marshal of the Royal Ambassadors of the Nigeria Baptist Convention, Mr Bitebo Eregoba, has cautioned Nigerian youths against being used by politicians to snatch ballot boxes, intimidate voters or engage in other forms of electoral violence during the 2027 general elections.

Eregoba gave the warning on Wednesday at a briefing at the Baptist Church, Ibara, Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he announced plans to train more than 2,000 youths nationwide in leadership, character development and responsible citizenship.

He urged young people to reject financial inducements from politicians seeking to recruit them for activities capable of undermining elections and jeopardising their future.

Eregoba warned that politicians who sponsor electoral violence often escape the consequences, leaving recruited youths to face arrest, prosecution, imprisonment and damage to their reputations.

He called on young Nigerians to protect their lives and future by refusing to participate in ballot-box snatching, voter harassment, intimidation and other electoral offences.

The marshal also appealed to churches, parents and community leaders to pay closer attention to young people’s activities, friendships and sources of income, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the elections.

He said the Royal Ambassadors was committed to raising disciplined young men who would serve their communities and contribute to national development with integrity.

According to him, the organisation’s activities extend beyond religious gatherings to include practical interventions addressing social and moral challenges confronting young people.

He disclosed that the association had established Anti-Social Vices Clubs in states where it operates, with coordination extending to local government areas, to tackle drug abuse, indiscipline and other harmful practices.

Eregoba said the organisation was working with agencies including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Nigeria Police Force, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, the National Orientation Agency, school authorities, community leaders and civil society organisations.

He added that the forthcoming National Leadership Training Conference, themed “Divine Companionship”, would provide an opportunity to train young leaders, assess the organisation’s activities and develop strategies for the coming year.

The conference is expected to bring together Royal Ambassadors from across the country, with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Toluwade of Akinale, Oba Oluseyi Adediran, listed as special guests of honour.

Eregoba stressed that mentorship, discipline and supportive relationships were essential to helping young Nigerians navigate social challenges and make responsible choices.