#EkitiDecides: Ojudu urges voters to speak up against electoral irregularities

Former presidential adviser and political commentator, Babafemi Ojudu, has called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and actively engage in the democratic process, stressing that citizens must not remain silent when confronted with electoral irregularities.

Ojudu made the appeal on Saturday after experiencing challenges at his polling unit during the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti State.

According to him, the issues were promptly addressed after he drew the attention of electoral officials to the problem, underscoring the importance of citizen participation in ensuring credible elections.

Reflecting on the incident, Ojudu said he chose not to ignore the challenges or complain privately but instead reported them immediately to the appropriate authorities.

He noted that the electoral officials responded by contacting their office and taking corrective measures that quickly resolved the situation.

“Whenever problems rear their heads, those who have a voice must speak. One of the greatest afflictions of our society is the silence of those who see wrongs being done but choose to look away,” he stated.

Describing the experience as a lesson in democratic responsibility, Ojudu said active citizenship remains crucial to the success of democratic governance.

“This morning, I encountered difficulties at my polling unit. Rather than grumble in private or walk away in frustration, I immediately drew attention to the problem. The electoral officials contacted their office, and to their credit, corrective measures were taken without delay. The situation has since improved.”

He argued that democracy flourishes when citizens remain alert and engaged, insisting that public participation should not end at casting votes.

“This experience reinforces an important lesson: democracy does not thrive on passive citizenship. It depends on alert, engaged, and vigilant citizens who are prepared to speak up when things go wrong and commend improvements when they occur.”

Ojudu further emphasised that accountability and public oversight are essential pillars of democratic governance.

“Vigilance is one of the essential requirements of democracy. Let us not shy away from it. Let us ask questions, demand accountability, and insist that institutions do what they are meant to do. Democracy works best when citizens refuse to be indifferent.”