Nigerians voting at a polling unit
Freedom of thought and conscience is a fundamental right that every developed nation recognizes and protects through its constitution. It is this right that guarantees citizens the freedom to vote and be elected into public office. Nigeria, like many other countries, places great value on this right, recognizing the need to safeguard it from persecution and harassment. Hence, voting in Nigeria is carried out in secret, allowing citizens to express their political views without fear of retribution. This discreet voting system is a testament to the Nigerian people’s determination to protect their democratic rights and ensure that their voices are heard.
Despite the progress made in promoting democratic values around the world, there are still individuals who cling to outdated and manipulative beliefs. These self-proclaimed elites see themselves as the guardians of power and will stop at nothing to maintain their status. Sadly, this poses a significant threat to the civilized way in which political leaders are elected. In the days leading up to the general election, troubling rhetoric and actions have begun to emerge that strike at the core of democratic values. This includes attempts to manipulate the outcome of the election and stifle the voices of those who dare to challenge the status quo. The situation is immensely worrisome and highlights the need for continued vigilance in protecting the principles of democracy, even in the face of adversity.
Over the weekend, a voice recording made rounds online, featuring a purported traditional leader addressing residents of Gbara in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State. In the recording, the traditional leader can be heard making a statement that raised eyebrows along these lines: “In order for you to continue conducting business in this area, we require evidence of which political party you support during voting. While voting is confidential, we need you to take a picture of the party you voted for and show us. If we don’t see APC (All Progressives Congress) there, you will face consequences. This is not a threat, but a fact. You must follow the practices of the area in which you conduct your business if you wish to continue doing so peacefully. We used to beg before, but not anymore.”
Lagos
The occurrence of such an event within a democratic society or a diverse city like Lagos is unfathomable. Nevertheless, it is crucial to contemplate the implications of the precedence it sets.
During the 2015 gubernatorial election, the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, caused an uproar when he demanded that Igbo residents of the state vote for the All Progressives Congress candidate, Akinwunmi Ambode, or face dire consequences of being submerged in the lagoon. This demand was made during a visit by traditional Igbo leaders from Lagos’ local governments. The Oba’s statement was met with widespread condemnation, leading the palace to release a statement retracting the comment. They acknowledged that such behavior was unprecedented and inappropriate for a traditional ruler. However, with the recent controversy surrounding the leaked audio recording, it is evident that the situation has escalated beyond what occurred in 2015.
It is incredibly troubling to note that after eight years, coercive politics still holds sway in the country. This is particularly evident in the 11-minute and 34-second audio recording, which clearly reveals that the speakers were specifically targeting non-Yoruba residents of the Gbara area. It is shocking to consider that these individuals were not addressing aliens or outsiders but fellow Nigerian citizens. It is essential to recognize that this type of behavior is entirely unacceptable and has no place in a society that values diversity and democratic principles. The fact that it continues to occur is a concerning indication of the challenges that lie ahead in the quest for a just and equitable society.
The current situation is not peculiar to Lagos or any particular community in Nigeria; it is a pervasive issue affecting the entire country. In the 2023 elections, if ordinary citizens are prevented from voting for their preferred candidate, the country’s democratic aspirations will be rendered meaningless. It is incumbent upon the federal government to act swiftly, remind citizens of their rights, and take appropriate measures against those who victimize others.
Every Nigerian should be free to choose their candidate of choice in the upcoming elections without being coerced or intimidated. It is crucial to ensure that the principles of democracy and the rule of law are upheld and that every citizen’s voice is heard and counted.
Praise Ben writes for Eko Hot Blog. This media platform reserves all rights to this article.
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