LASG TAKES VOTER EDUCATION CAMPAIGN TO IJEDE, IKORODU … Urges Citizens To Actively Participate In Democratic Process

LASG TAKES VOTER EDUCATION CAMPAIGN TO IJEDE, IKORODU

… Urges Citizens To Actively Participate In Democratic Process

The Lagos State Government, through the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (OPL&CE), has urged residents to actively participate in the democratic process and fulfil their civic responsibilities.

The call was made during a one-day Advocacy for Voter Education programme held at the Ijede Local Council Development Area Secretariat, Madan Street, Ijede, Ikorodu. The event is part of the State Government’s efforts to deepen civic awareness and strengthen participatory democracy at the grassroots.

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, OPL&CE, Engr. Sholabomi Shasore, represented by the Director, Citizens’ Engagement Department, Dr. Babatunde Omotayo, described the initiative as a deliberate and transformative action aimed at rekindling civic responsibility. She said it is designed to empower citizens with the knowledge, rights, and confidence needed to shape governance from the grassroots.

She noted that the Voter Education Advocacy is not a one-off programme but part of a broader civic renaissance being championed by the Lagos State Government through OPL&CE.

According to her, the initiative seeks to promote a culture of active, inclusive, and deliberate citizenship. She stressed that democracy should no longer be viewed as a spectator sport, but as a collective engagement between the government and the governed.

She further emphasised that voter education goes beyond knowing where and how to vote. It also involves understanding the importance of voting and the responsibility that comes with exercising one’s franchise.

She urged participants to become community ambassadors by sharing the knowledge gained, countering voter suppression, disinformation, and electoral violence, while defending the sanctity of the ballot.

She added that effective democracy depends on well-informed, engaged, and responsible citizens. As Lagos continues to grow, there is a need to strengthen a culture where citizens not only vote during elections but also engage their representatives and contribute to community development.

Speaking on voter education, the representative of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mr. Sunday Obanubi, emphasised the importance of keeping Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) safe and in good condition. He also educated participants on how to identify their polling units using the information on their voter cards.

In his presentation, the Head of Tracka, BudgIT Foundation, Mr. Osiyemi Joshua, urged participants to remain informed and actively engaged with the government. He stressed the importance of holding public officials accountable and working together to build safer and more responsible communities.

In his goodwill message, the Vice Chairman of Ijede LCDA, Hon. Kabiru Kareem, urged residents to support the government and participate actively in elections. He noted that citizens’ participation is essential for meaningful development and positive change.

The engagement session also provided an opportunity for participants to receive information on various Lagos State Government programmes and to seek clarification on voter participation, transfer of polling units, and other electoral processes.

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