Mr Austine Enabulele, the Interim TEC Chairman of Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSOs), has identified active voter participation as a crucial factor for democratic growth.
Enabulele disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Benin on Tuesday.
NAN reports that EDOCSOs is a coalition of different Civil Society Organisations in Edo.
Speaking on the Sept. 21 governorship election in Edo, Enabulele says the power of change lies with the electorate and by their voting choice, they can determine the state’s future.
He reminded the electorate of their responsibility to vote during elections, noting that the decisions made on Sept. 21 would shape the state for the next four years.
“Your voting rights give you the power to hold those in office accountable.
“By casting your vote, you ensure that your voice is heard and that the leaders elected represent your interests,” he said.
He called on security agencies to provide adequate protection for voters, electoral materials, and all stakeholders that would be participating in the election.
Enabulele also urged voters to prioritise their safety on election day by arriving at polling units early, casting their votes promptly, and returning home afterward.
“The best security is self-security,” he emphasised, urging voters to avoid lingering at polling stations unnecessarily.
NAN recalls that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently announced the updated list of governorship candidates via a statement in Abuja.
Mr Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, indicated in the statement that 17 political parties were fielding candidates for the governorship election.
According to the statement, there is only one female out of the 17 candidates. (NAN
