UI ELECTIONS: What can we learn from the 2023 general elections?

 

By: Raimat Lawal

The 2023 general elections witnessed incredible mass participation from the citizens; youth most especially. The high level of participation showed the interest of the populace in the government of Nigeria. This is evident in the large number of Permanent Voters' Card (PVC) registration and collection as reported by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the youths made up the highest percentage of registered voters. 

Democracy, they say "is the government of the people, by the people, and for the people", but the reckoning of that popular and powerful saying with this country has been in doubt. However, the recent electoral experience has shown Nigerians that the step towards the democracy we crave has been made. Several programs were organized by young minds and these programs were aimed at creating an atmosphere for free and fair elections, as well as a thoughtful decision-making process in choosing the next leader.

One of the several programs was the Tunde Oshobi Public Forum organized by Junior Chamber International, University of Ibadan with the theme "2023 Elections: Reshaping Nigeria's Future" - which also featured a panel session where people in the political spheres shared their experience and views on Nigerian politics. Attendees were made to see the importance of their involvement in bringing forth the Nigeria we clamour for.

Worthy of mention is a recently published book, "Arise O Compatriots: A call to better leadership in Nigeria" written by Kingsley Chukwuma. The book is a call to action for Nigerians to be a part of politics, re-imagine leadership, empower women and underrepresented groups, tackling corruption thereby taking charge of the country's future. All these have been effective in bringing power to the people as Nigerians swarmed out to vote and were present to count their votes. As members of the University of Ibadan campus populace, it is important that we borrow a leaf from the lessons learnt during the general elections.  

SAY NO TO FAMILY AND SOCIAL POLITICS

First, it is not enough to vote because the candidate is from your department, faculty, hall, or religious fellowship. It is expected that we translate the awakening we have to our local political system. Our focus should be on the content and quality of each contestant’s manifesto. These are the solid plans that must come with whatever popularity clout a contestant has. It is no longer enough to be the contestant with the most social backing. This session’s elections should mark the end of the usual mantra;

“He knows a lot of people. He rolls with so and so.”

What we kicked vehemently against at the national level must not continue in our locality.

 

ENGAGE THE CONTESTANTS

Maybe it is the freshers who need to hear this; the best time to engage a UI politician is when he/she is vying for a position. That is the time they are at their most humble and accommodating. Your opinions will be welcome and you could be their best friend at this time. Do not let such an opportunity pass you by; ask them questions, drill them, and request their plans on the spot. Do not allow them to dazzle you with a long run of oratory prowess. Do not smile and walk away without hearing something concrete from them. 

Another form of engagement is to attend manifesto nights. It is an important part of the electioneering process. You should not vote blindly. Grab any opportunity presented before you to know and fully understand their plans for your department, faculty, hall, or school.     

REGARD THE REPORTS OF ESTABLISHED POLITICAL INSTITUTIONS

 The political institutions present on the campus are there to assist the general public in making the right choices. The two institutions principally involved in political seasons are the Electoral Commission and the Press. As customary, both institutions would conduct screening exercises for the contestants and release results based on how they were graded by those present. This is an avenue for the general public to ascertain the capabilities of the contestants. Any contestant who performs poorly at both screening exercises is most likely not worthy of the people’s votes. The exercises conducted by these institutions are not for the fun of it, they are to aid the public in judging who is/are better candidates. Therefore, the results of these exercises should not be disregarded.

It is however not enough to be passionate about the electioneering process alone; following up the process of governance should be made a priority. Holding elected leaders accountable, being vocal, and advocating for beneficial policies are equally important.