Violence, vote-buying erode confidence in elections – NOA

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has identified various factors contributing to a decline in Nigerians' confidence in the electoral process, including election violence, misinformation, vote-buying, and a growing perception that voting lacks impact. Olukemi Afolayan, the NOA's Director for Civic, Values and Democracy Education, spoke on this at a recent roundtable discussion, emphasizing the need to reclaim citizens' trust in democracy to encourage greater voter participation.

She stressed that Nigeria's youthful population, with its active stake in the nation's future, necessitates enfranchising a new generation of voters through civic education and values reorientation. According to Afolayan, the agency believes that understanding the significance of voting and the associated rights and responsibilities is crucial.

Osun state's National Orientation Council vowed to prevent intimidation and ensure a credible election. Meanwhile, Prof Ajibade Michael, a university don, suggested that individuals over the age of 70 should not participate in Nigerian politics, citing younger people's ability to better grasp contemporary challenges. The Humanitarian Foundation for Social Justice's Adekunle Adebanjo highlighted the roundtable's purpose as fostering dialogue among stakeholders to enhance Nigeria's democratic journey and improve citizens' living conditions and opportunities. The comments come as Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections.