The National Youth Council (NYC) has urged the youth to desist from allowing themselves to be used for personal gains by politicians. They should also redirect their energies and time to enhancing their aptitude for innovation and self-discovery in order to improve the quality of their lives and communities. A release signed by Ms Sarah Obeng, Public Relations Officer of NYC, warned persons who took delight in influencing the youth for their personal gains to stop the practice. It said: “We challenge them to recognise the fact that it is more rewarding to redirect the resources they invest in generating and promoting conflicts towards building patriotism, nationalism and volunteerism for the enhancement of peace and stability of Ghana.” The NYC said it was concerned that in spite of the global recognition of the youth as a valuable resource for national development, a large number of them allowed themselves to be used by unscrupulous and selfish politicians to foment trouble and violent conflicts in some cases. The release said it had noted with grave concern recent happenings in various parts of the country involving some youths of some political parties and condemned the violence that had been exhibited. It said these conflicts and other vices often resulted in deaths and under-development in such communities and the nation as a whole. The NYC enjoined the youth to be very discerning and vigilant in their individual and collective undertakings. The Council also called on all peace-loving Ghanaians to join hands to ensure peaceful general election and a harmonious environment for the nation’s development. Source: GNA