The RATELs, emerging social movements, and the rising influence of Nigerian youth ahead 2027 Politics

By Msonter Ijoho

In the dynamic landscape of Nigerian politics, a fresh energy is emerging—not from traditional power brokers or established political families, but from the streets, smartphones, and innovative minds of Nigerian youth. Amid economic struggles, social disillusionment, and escalating insecurity, young Nigerians are mobilizing not just to protest but to seize political power.

Central to this awakening are movements like the RATELs, fervent supporters of activist VeryDarkMan (VDM), alongside digitally-driven, socially aware groups such as the Obidients, Sorosoke Generation, and various influencer-led youth blocs.

The RATELs have evolved from mere followers of VDM into a formidable civic pressure group. Following VDM’s outspoken critiques of hollow philanthropy, performative activism, and governmental neglect, the RATELs have emerged as a bold collective, unafraid to challenge injustice and organize nationwide protests. During VDM’s recent arrest, they demonstrated their social credibility and broad reach, staging demonstrations across cities and flooding social media with campaigns demanding accountability.

Their hybrid structure—combining digital engagement with grassroots activism—sets them apart. Inspired by VDM’s raw street rhetoric and a commitment to “truth without varnish,” they are seen as unruly by the establishment but authentic by many young Nigerians.

While the RATELs are prominent, they are not the sole players in this surge of youth activism. Several other movements have emerged, each with its distinct voice and approach.

The **Obidients Movement** formed around Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign. Comprising young professionals, tech-savvy individuals, civil society advocates, and urban voters, the Obidients reflected a deep desire for transparency, accountability, and youth-oriented leadership.

Though Obi did not win, the movement ignited an electoral consciousness not seen in decades, reshaping voter registration, campaign strategies, and messaging.

The **Sorosoke Generation** arose from the #EndSARS protests of 2020. Meaning “speak up” in Yoruba, Sorosoke became a powerful voice against police brutality and poor governance. Though it lacks a central figure or formal structure, its spirit continues to influence civic engagement, voter participation, and protest culture.

**Influencer-Driven Micro-Movements** have also gained traction, with celebrity influencers and social media commentators shaping public sentiment. These figures, commanding vast followings, play a pivotal role in endorsing or condemning political figures, driven more by relevance than ideology.

On university campuses and within informal youth associations, **Campus Bloc Networks and Grassroots Coalitions** are reaching new heights of political awareness. These loosely organized groups are poised to significantly impact the 2027 campaigns by connecting digital discourse to real-world issues.

What makes this moment significant is not just the presence of these movements but their potential to converge. Despite their differences in style and focus, they share common frustrations—youth unemployment, inflation, insecurity, ineffective governance, and a sense of betrayal by past administrations.

For the first time in recent memory, Nigeria is witnessing a multitude of youth groups organizing and asserting their political relevance simultaneously.

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If 2023 served as a warning, 2027 could be the full realization of youth power, if properly harnessed. These youth blocs dominate online trends and public discourse, forcing political parties to align with their priorities or face significant resistance.

Through digital vetting, past records of political candidates are widely scrutinized, and unpopular figures may be disqualified from serious consideration long before elections. Movements like the RATELs and Obidients thrive outside traditional party structures, potentially supporting independent candidates and initiatives. Their efforts in civic education and voter mobilization are already reshaping voter turnout dynamics.

However, this youthful awakening carries risks—fragmentation, infighting, and vulnerability to financial inducements or political co-option remain significant concerns. Movements lacking structure may be absorbed or weakened through political patronage, and the cult of personality surrounding figures like VDM could limit long-term impact without deeper policy foundations.

Nigerian youth movements, from the RATELs to the Obidients and beyond, are evolving from sidelined critics to agenda-setters and power brokers. Their diversity, rawness, and digital agility may seem chaotic, but beneath it lies the pulse of a new political force.

If these movements can unite, the 2027 elections could signal a generational shift, where youthful vision and reformist zeal translate from social media hashtags to the ballot box.

The pressing question now is not whether youth can lead, but whether the Nigerian political system is prepared for their leadership.