2027: Reject vote-buying, SAN, INEC urge Ogun residents

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kunle Kalejaye, has called on residents of Ilese and surrounding communities in Ogun State, Nigeria, to actively shun vote-buying and engage in the electoral process. Kalejaye, who is also the Chairman of the Ilese Development Council, described the ballot as the most powerful tool for demanding good governance.

“

The vote is your power to enforce and demand good governance. Do not mortgage your future by selling your vote. Choose leaders based on competence, integrity and their commitment to serving the people.

During a Voters’ Education Summit, Kalejaye urged citizens to recognize the power of their votes and resist any attempts to exchange them for financial or material gains. He stressed that voting is a civic responsibility and the most effective way to elect credible leaders and hold public officeholders accountable. He also encouraged eligible residents to register to vote and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards to shape their communities and the nation's future.

The summit, organized by the Ilese Development Council, brought together community leaders, electoral officials, security agencies, and various stakeholder groups. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ogun State, represented by the Head of Operations, Joseph Omotiloye, emphasized that voter registration is the bedrock of democratic governance. Omotiloye urged all eligible Nigerians to register, collect their PVCs, and participate actively in elections.

“

Voting is a civic responsibility that remains the most effective means of electing credible leaders and holding public office holders accountable.

Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, assured residents of adequate security during the electoral period. Represented by ACP Yusuf Wasiu, he urged citizens not to let fear or intimidation deter them from exercising their constitutional rights. The police pledged to remain professional and impartial in protecting voters, electoral officials, and materials. Participants received education on voter registration procedures, the importance of safeguarding their PVCs, and the need to reject vote-buying and electoral violence.

“

voter registration remained the foundation of democratic governance.