Go forth and claim your voice

Voting is a fundamental right and an essential aspect of any democratic society. It allows you and I to have a say in the decisions that affect our lives and the direction of our communities and dear country.   As the year starts, it is very imperative that we understand the dynamics of what the 2023 […]

Voting is a fundamental right and an essential aspect of any democratic society. It allows you and I to have a say in the decisions that affect our lives and the direction of our communities and dear country.  

As the year starts, it is very imperative that we understand the dynamics of what the 2023 elections mean. Per the democratic contract, every four years, we are to inconvenience ourselves so we can set the trajectory of our great nation toward a better future.  It’s important for all eligible voters to exercise their right to vote and have a say in the issues that matter to them.  

There are many reasons why voting is important. First and foremost, it gives us the opportunity to choose who would lead the country. This is very important because, for every election, our voting pattern sets precedence. Voting is also a way for people to have a say in the issues that matter to them. Whether its education, healthcare, the environment, or any other issue, voting allows individuals to express their views and support candidates who align with their beliefs. Every candidate vying for whatever office has an ideology they are running on. How we vote tells the world and us what ideology we want to adopt as a country. In addition, our vote gives us legitimacy to hold elected officials accountable for their actions and inactions.  

Beyond voting as a process, being a deliberate voter is as important. As a people, we have to ensure that we vote our conscience and devoid our decisions at the ballot of mundane variables such as culture, and religion, among others. This is because our decision when we stand at the ballot box should not be clouded by the sentiments belonging but by the larger picture of progress. The want for change.  

Furthermore, voting helps to ensure that the government represents the will of the people. It allows individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life to come together and make their voices heard. By participating in elections, people can help to ensure that their values and concerns are reflected in the decisions made by those in power.  

However, it’s important to note that the right to vote is not always a given. Throughout history, many groups have had to fight for the right to vote and have faced barriers to exercising this right. It’s crucial that we continue to work towards ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in elections and have their voices heard.  

Nigeria is a country of many problems. However, we practice one of the finest forms of democracy anywhere in the world (despite the existing challenges). For 23 years now, we have had the privilege of enjoying an uninterrupted democratic government. However, one of the greatest threats to that democracy is voter apathy. The dwindling numbers of voter turnout throughout the election cycle of Nigeria’s democracy have set our democracy back some paces. We have to do better this year. We have to show up and be the change that we want to see.  

So, as the year starts and as we march toward February, I hope you are armed with your PVCs. I hope that you realise that this is all we have. The precedent we set for this election will speak largely to the future of our great country. Let posterity look back on this year and remember that we did what was right. That we did not deter, and our faith remained steadfast.  

Go forth and demand. Vote, because your vote is your voice and your voice is your responsibility.  

 

Mukthar M. Suleiman sent this piece from Abuja