Why vote, you ask? Because it is one of the fundamental rights and duties of citizens in a democratic society, voting is important. Voting empowers citizens, gives them a say in who governs them, and enables them to take part in the decision-making processes that have an impact on their lives.
The following are some arguments in favor of voting:
It offers you a voice: Voting is an opportunity for you to express yourself and have your opinion heard. You can influence your community’s and the nation’s future by using your right to vote.
Democracy is strengthened when citizens take part in the electoral process because it ensures that the government is answerable to the people it is meant to serve.
Voting is a shared activity that unites people despite their differences and fosters a sense of community. It provides a chance to interact with people who hold similar values and opinions to your own.
Let’s now discuss how to cast your ballot in the election scheduled for February 25, 2023.
Here are some actions you may take to cast an informed ballot.
It’s critical to be knowledgeable about the candidates and national issues in order to cast an informed ballot. This can be accomplished by looking into the backgrounds and positions of candidates on crucial subjects, keeping an eye on debates, and following news coverage. Attend political gatherings, debates, and other occasions where you can hear the candidates themselves speak. Take note of their previous accomplishments as well.
It’s crucial to think about how your vote fits with your own values and ideas.
Make sure you have registered to vote in your constituency before casting your ballot. Visit the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office nearby to accomplish this.
You must be registered to vote and present acceptable identification in order to cast your ballot.
Get Your Voter’s Card: After registering, a Permanent Voter’s Card will be sent to you (PVC). You can only vote in this way, so keep it secure and easily available.
Find out where and when to vote: The location and time of voting in your area should be listed on the website or in the local elections office.
The day of the election, show up at your chosen polling place with identification and any other required documentation.
Vote: A ballot will be provided to you after you arrive at the voting place. After making your selections, deposit your entire ballot in the voting machine.
Vote properly: There are a number of steps you must take in order to vote properly, which entails choosing a candidate from the candidates on the ballot. Making sure your thumbprint is securely printed in one column without spilling into the columns next to it is one of them.
The voting process should be free of bias and bribery. It violates the law and undercuts democracy. Voting should only be based on the merits of the candidates and the issues at hand, without being swayed by outside influences.
It goes without saying that you should not take cash or other gifts from candidates or their supporters in return for your support. Keep in mind that your vote is a priceless expression of your voice.
Vote according to your conscience and select the candidate that most closely aligns with your ideals, principles, and beliefs. Voting shouldn’t be influenced by biases like racial or religious affiliation.
Report Any Incidents of Bribery or Intimidation: If you see, hear, or otherwise come into contact with any instance of bribery or intimidation, you should immediately contact the police, INEC officials, or civil society organizations.
The Style Aspect
Ensure that your PVC is in possession and not your ATM card.
In this instance, there is water for the roads under the sun and there is weather. You’ll feel thirsty. Bring some water with you to sip on occasion.
You can take extra precautions by Bringing extra should in case someone trying to vote, like you, didn’t bring water.
To look stylish, wear a “beach attire with a slight dosage of battle attitude,” as one piece put it. While deciding how to spend the next four years of your life, dress comfortably and have your sunglass and cap available.
Keep in mind that every vote matters and that your vote is your power. You may contribute to a free and fair electoral process and help create a better Nigeria for everyone by casting your vote honestly and without bias.
