Youths Tasked on Active Participation in Electoral Process in Lagos
In a concerted effort to boost voter engagement, the Executive Director of Springwell Development Initiative, Mrs Feyikemi Fabiyi-Omoniyi, and the Lagos Focal Person for Yiaga Africa, Mr Michael Ogunshola, have issued a direct call to action for youths in Lagos, with a particular focus on those residing in the Ojo Local Council area. They emphasized the critical need for young people to register and collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to ensure their voices are heard in the democratic process.
Roadshow Initiative to Mobilize Voters
This appeal followed a vibrant roadshow organized by Springwell Development Initiative and Yiaga Africa, which was financially supported by the National Endowment for Democracy. The event targeted residents of Ojo council, where participants traversed various communities, including local markets, to distribute informational flyers and affix stickers. The primary goal was to educate the public on the significance of PVC registration and the necessity of casting votes on election day.
During the interactions, Fabiyi-Omoniyi highlighted that many residents, particularly adults and the elderly, had already completed their PVC registration and collection. However, she noted a concerning trend among youths, who expressed skepticism about the electoral system, with some complaining that their votes might not be counted. In response, the organizers clarified that ballots can only contribute to electoral outcomes if individuals actively participate by voting.
Addressing Electoral Concerns and Promoting Accountability
Fabiyi-Omoniyi further explained that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is implementing measures to enhance the integrity and transparency of the electoral system. She stressed that by engaging in the electoral process, residents can effectively demand accountability and good governance from elected officials and political leaders, thereby shaping the future of their communities.
To ensure the sustainability of this mobilization effort, community ambassadors have been appointed. These ambassadors are tasked with encouraging residents to register for and collect their PVCs, as well as reminding those who have made commitments to follow through on their pledges. This strategic approach aims to foster long-term civic engagement and voter participation.
Follow-Up to Previous Engagement Efforts
On his part, Ogunshola mentioned that this roadshow served as a follow-up to an earlier town hall meeting, indicating a continuous and structured campaign to involve citizens in the electoral process. The initiative underscores the importance of youth involvement in democracy, as their active participation is seen as essential for driving positive change and ensuring that governance reflects the will of the people.
