2027: Lagos ADC candidate urges participation in electoral process

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos State has urged residents, particularly women and youths, to participate actively in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party’s Lagos West Senatorial Candidate, Mr Hafis Bello, made the call on Friday during a two-kilometre solidarity walk organised by the party in collaboration with the Ifako-Ijaye Rainbow Alliance (IRA),a community-based political group, in Lagos.

It was reported that the walk, held in Ifako-Ijaiye area ,had the theme “Women and Youth Participation in Politics: Why and How.”

Bello said the initiative was designed to encourage participation in the electoral  process ,boost campaign awareness,and  mobilise support support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Minister Rotimi Amaechi,himself  and other ADC candidates.

“The two-kilometre walk is an opportunity to take political awareness to the grassroots and encourage more women and young people to participate actively in politics,” Bello said.

He said stressed the need to  promote peaceful political engagement and encourage citizens to make informed decisions when choosing their leaders.

Bello urged women and young people to take advantage of democratic opportunities by registering to vote, obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participating in political activities.

“The future of our democracy depends on the willingness of citizens, particularly the youth and women, to participate meaningfully in the electoral process,” he said.

He said political participation should extend beyond election periods, stressing that citizens needed to remain engaged in governance and hold elected representatives accountable.

“Democracy becomes stronger when citizens understand their rights, ask questions and demand accountability from those entrusted with public responsibilities,” he said.

The ADC chieftain called on residents of Ifako-Ijaiye and neighbouring communities to embrace grassroots mobilisation as a means of expanding political awareness.

“Our objective is to encourage people to understand the electoral process, engage with political parties and make their voices count through lawful and peaceful participation,” Bello said.

He urged political actors to promote issue-based campaigns rather than resort to personal attacks, intimidation or violence.

“Political differences should not divide our communities or threaten our peaceful coexistence. We must promote dialogue, respect opposing views and allow the electorate to make independent choices,” he said.

Bello emphasised the importance of creating more opportunities for women to contribute to political decision-making.

“Women have important contributions to make in leadership and national development. They should be encouraged to participate, contest elections and contribute to decisions affecting their families and communities,” he said.

He also urged youths to move beyond political discussions on social media to participate in voter education and community engagement.

“The youth represent a significant part of our population, and their ideas, energy and leadership potential should be reflected in the political process,” Bello said.