Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State, the President of the Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT), Dr Ayodeji Abdulrauf, has urged eligible voters to shun apathy and turn out in large numbers to exercise their franchise.
Abdulrauf particularly called on youths, low-income citizens and other disadvantaged communities to make use of their voter cards, stressing that their participation would be crucial to determining the direction of the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the NASFAT President warned that frustration with the political system should not discourage citizens from participating in the electoral process, saying staying away from the polls would amount to surrendering their power to determine who governs them.
He urged voters to resist political cynicism and ensure that their voices are heard through the ballot box, regardless of their economic or social status.
“Giving up or giving in to cynicism and division… would represent a betrayal of founding ideas.” He acknowledged that diverse and disadvantaged communities often feel frustrated by an inefficient democracy,” he said.
Abdulrauf also called on political parties and candidates to conduct themselves peacefully before, during and after the election, while urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure a free and peaceful exercise.
“Enough is enough , Let the poor voices be heard and let their votes count ! All political parties candidates, the INEC , the security agencies and other actors should give peace space in their do”s and undo”s on Saturday to give Osun state people a new breath of good governance for impactful dividends of democracy,” he added.
The NASFAT President stressed that citizens who are dissatisfied with the state of governance should express their concerns through their votes rather than withdrawing from the democratic process.
He further urged all stakeholders to provide a peaceful environment that would enable Osun residents to vote freely, saying the people deserve an election that would usher in good governance and meaningful development.
Abdulrauf prayed that the election would produce a candidate capable of serving the interests of the people and delivering impactful development across the state.