By Peter Emmanuel |
The Lagos State Government has sensitised residents of Ijede, Ikorodu, on the importance of voter participation and active involvement in the democratic process.
The sensitisation was carried out through the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (OPL&CE) during a one-day Advocacy for Voter Education programme held at the Ijede Local Council Development Area Secretariat, Madan Street, Ijede, Ikorodu.
The programme was organised as part of efforts by the state government to increase civic awareness and encourage greater participation in democratic activities at the grassroots.
The government urged residents to understand their civic responsibilities and take an active role in shaping governance through participation in elections and engagement with elected representatives.
The engagement also provided residents with information on voter participation, transfer of polling units and other electoral processes.
OPL&CE Urges Residents to Embrace Civic Responsibility
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of OPL&CE, Engr. Sholabomi Shasore, represented by the Director, Citizens’ Engagement Department, Dr. Babatunde Omotayo, described the initiative as a deliberate effort to strengthen civic responsibility among residents.
Shasore said the programme was designed to equip citizens with the knowledge, rights and confidence needed to participate meaningfully in governance at the grassroots.
She said the voter education advocacy was not a one-off programme but part of a broader civic initiative being implemented by the Lagos State Government through OPL&CE.
According to her, the initiative seeks to promote active and inclusive citizenship while encouraging residents to see democracy as a process that requires the participation of both government and citizens.
She urged participants to share the knowledge gained with others and help counter voter suppression, disinformation and electoral violence while protecting the integrity of the ballot.
INEC Educates Residents on PVC Safety and Polling Units
Speaking during the programme, the representative of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mr. Sunday Obanubi, advised residents to keep their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) safe and in good condition.
Obanubi also educated participants on how to identify their polling units using the information contained on their voter cards.
He provided explanations on voter participation and other aspects of the electoral process to help residents better understand their responsibilities as voters.
The session also gave participants an opportunity to seek clarification on issues relating to voter participation, transfer of polling units and other electoral procedures.
The INEC representative urged residents to make use of the information provided and remain informed about the electoral process.
BudgIT Urges Citizens to Hold Public Officials Accountable
In his presentation, the Head of Tracka, BudgIT Foundation, Mr. Osiyemi Joshua, urged participants to remain informed and actively engaged with government activities.
Joshua stressed the importance of holding public officials accountable and encouraged citizens to pay attention to government programmes and activities in their communities.
He also called on residents to work together to build safer and more responsible communities through active citizenship and engagement with public institutions.
In his goodwill message, the Vice Chairman of Ijede LCDA, Hon. Kabiru Kareem, urged residents to support the government and participate actively in elections.
Kareem said citizens’ participation was essential for meaningful development and positive change, urging residents to make their voices count through the democratic process.
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