APC sensitises electorate on responsible voting, decent campaigns

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Isolo Local Government Area (LGA) of Lagos, has embarked on a house-to-house sensitisation to promote responsible voting and decent campaigns ahead the 2027 general elections.

The party’s Chairman in the council, Mr Tonade Akinwale, who  disclosed this in an interview with our reporter on Monday, said that the electorate needed proper enlightenment ahead of the polls.

Akinwale said the initiative was aimed at educating residents on peaceful electoral participation, issue-based campaigns and respect for voters’ rights regardless political affiliations.

“The electorate should see elections as opportunity to exercise their civic responsibility rather than avenue for violence, intimidation or confrontation.

“We are going from house to house to sensitise our people on the need to conduct themselves responsibly before, during and after the election,” he said.

He, therefore, urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to focus their campaigns on policies, programmes and development issues that would improve the people’s lives.

“Political differences should not destroy the peaceful coexistence among residents, as people have rights to support candidates or political parties of choice.

“We must learn to disagree politically without becoming enemies.

“Campaigns should be about ideas, policies and what candidates intend to do for the people,” he said.

The APC chieftain also appealed to voters to reject violence, vote-buying, intimidation, hate speech and other acts capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process.

“Eligible voters should obtain and safeguard their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in the electoral process.

“This is in accordance with guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“Voters should maintain orderly conduct at polling units, respect election officials and allow collation processes to take place without interference,” he said.

Akinwale said that though every vote matters, the way they are cast is equally important.

“Youths should resist attempts by politicians or other individuals to use them for electoral violence, as the consequences could affect their future.

“Community leaders, religious bodies, civil society organisations, media among others, should intensify voter education and promote messages that would encourage peaceful elections,” he said.

He noted that the sensitisation exercise would continue across communities in Isolo to adequately inform residents of their civic responsibilities and need to promote peace.