₦airaland Forum

The Health Benefits of Basil Seeds are:

1. Acts as a Natural Body Coolant

Drinks including sabja seeds provide great relief from the scorching heat of summers. Sabja seeds are known to reduce body heat and have a soothing effect on the stomach.

2. Reduces Blood Sugar Levels

Basil/Sabja seeds were proven to have eminent anti-diabetic potential. Sabja seeds are high in fibre. When sabja seeds were regularly given to diabetics just prior to meals, it prevented the spike in blood glucose levels. Thus, sabja seeds were found to be useful in maintaining blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 Diabetes.

3. Good for Diabetes Management

People who have been diagnosed with diabetes need to be very particular about what they eat in order to keep their blood sugar levels steady. Sabja seeds have been found to possess anti-diabetes properties.

4. Relieves Constipation & Acidity

Sabja seeds are rich in soluble fibre. When these seeds are added to our diet with a good quantity of water, they absorb water and thus help in drawing water to our gut. This results in the softening of faeces and promotes daily bowel movement.

5. Useful in Weight Loss

6. Aids in Weight Loss

7. Regularizes bowel movement

8. A Powerhouse of Minerals

Sabja seeds are a rich source of iron, calcium and magnesium.

9. Prevents the Risk of Heart Diseases

Sabja seeds contain an average of 2.5 grams of fat per 1-tablespoon. Of this fat, about half — 1,240 mg per tablespoon — is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fat.

The beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids include effects on lipids, blood pressure, cardiac and vascular function, eicosanoids, coagulation, and immunological responses. They thus decrease the risk of coronary heart disease, hypertension and stroke, and their complications.

10. Has Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Carcinogenic Properties which may reduce the risk of cancer and heart diseases.

11. Oral Health Benefits

12. May Reduce Cholesterol Levels

Pectin, a type of soluble fibre present in sabja seeds may lower the cholesterol levels in our body. It prevents the absorption of cholesterol in our gut.

13. Reduces Stress & Anxiety

14. 100% effective for skin and hair care and treatment of infections.

NIGERIA POSTER ADVERTISING

Are you always looking for new and exciting ways to advertise?

We here at Symmetric Poster Distribution have over 15 years’ experience in high impact poster distribution and pasting campaigns in Nigeria.

Having participated in 4 cycles of elections in Nigeria, since 2007, with years of practical experience in professional poster pasting working for different politicians, aspirants and political parties across Nigeria in Presidential, National
Assembly, States and Local Government elections in Nigeria.

We have wealth of experience in pasting political campaign posters in Lagos, and Nationwide.

Professionally executed poster advertising campaigns have a wide and high target market influence, reaching thousands of members of the public daily. When an event is publicised with a high impact poster distribution campaign the public are bombarded by visual advertisements (posters) for your production/event. In one day a single member of the public may see a hundreds of your posters or even thousands of your posters and of course every single poster might be seen and read by hundreds or even thousands of potential audience, voters, electorate, etc.

Research shows that the average lifespan of a poster is approximately four weeks, in that time thousands of people will have walked by your posters or sat and read your posters. This repetition of visual exposure towards potential target audience created by a high impact poster distribution campaign gives you, seeking political office as president, senator, house of representative, governor, chairman, councillor, federal & state law makers, the highest chance of being remembered and therefore voted for.

WE PASTE 2023 ELECTION CAMPAIGN POSTERS IN NIGERIA.

Contact:
Symmetric Communications.

NIGERIA POSTER ADVERTISING

Are you always looking for new and exciting ways to advertise?

We here at Symmetric Poster Distribution have over 15 years’ experience in high impact poster distribution and pasting campaigns in Nigeria.

Having participated in 4 cycles of elections in Nigeria, since 2007, with years of practical experience in professional poster pasting working for different politicians, aspirants and political parties across Nigeria in Presidential, National
Assembly, States and Local Government elections in Nigeria.

We have wealth of experience in pasting political campaign posters in Lagos, and Nationwide.

Professionally executed poster advertising campaigns have a wide and high target market influence, reaching thousands of members of the public daily. When an event is publicised with a high impact poster distribution campaign the public are bombarded by visual advertisements (posters) for your production/event. In one day a single member of the public may see a hundreds of your posters or even thousands of your posters and of course every single poster might be seen and read by hundreds or even thousands of potential audience, voters, electorate, etc.

Research shows that the average lifespan of a poster is approximately four weeks, in that time thousands of people will have walked by your posters or sat and read your posters. This repetition of visual exposure towards potential target audience created by a high impact poster distribution campaign gives you, seeking political office as president, senator, house of representative, governor, chairman, councillor, federal & state law makers, the highest chance of being remembered and therefore voted for.

WE PASTE 2023 ELECTION CAMPAIGN POSTERS IN NIGERIA.

Contact:
Symmetric Communications.

NIGERIA POSTER ADVERTISING

Are you always looking for new and exciting ways to advertise?

We here at Symmetric Poster Distribution have over 15 years’ experience in high impact poster distribution and pasting campaigns in Nigeria.

Having participated in 4 cycles of elections in Nigeria, since 2007, with years of practical experience in professional poster pasting working for different politicians, aspirants and political parties across Nigeria in Presidential, National
Assembly, States and Local Government elections in Nigeria.

We have wealth of experience in pasting political campaign posters in Lagos, and Nationwide.

Professionally executed poster advertising campaigns have a wide and high target market influence, reaching thousands of members of the public daily. When an event is publicised with a high impact poster distribution campaign the public are bombarded by visual advertisements (posters) for your production/event. In one day a single member of the public may see a hundreds of your posters or even thousands of your posters and of course every single poster might be seen and read by hundreds or even thousands of potential audience, voters, electorate, etc.

Research shows that the average lifespan of a poster is approximately four weeks, in that time thousands of people will have walked by your posters or sat and read your posters. This repetition of visual exposure towards potential target audience created by a high impact poster distribution campaign gives you, seeking political office as president, senator, house of representative, governor, chairman, councillor, federal & state law makers, the highest chance of being remembered and therefore voted for.

WE PASTE 2023 ELECTION CAMPAIGN POSTERS IN NIGERIA.

Contact:
Symmetric Communications.

NIGERIA POSTER ADVERTISING

Are you always looking for new and exciting ways to advertise?

We here at Symmetric Poster Distribution have over 15 years’ experience in high impact poster distribution and pasting campaigns in Nigeria.

Having participated in 4 cycles of elections in Nigeria, since 2007, with years of practical experience in professional poster pasting working for different politicians, aspirants and political parties across Nigeria in Presidential, National
Assembly, States and Local Government elections in Nigeria.

We have wealth of experience in pasting political campaign posters in Lagos, and Nationwide.

Professionally executed poster advertising campaigns have a wide and high target market influence, reaching thousands of members of the public daily. When an event is publicised with a high impact poster distribution campaign the public are bombarded by visual advertisements (posters) for your production/event. In one day a single member of the public may see a hundreds of your posters or even thousands of your posters and of course every single poster might be seen and read by hundreds or even thousands of potential audience, voters, electorate, etc.

Research shows that the average lifespan of a poster is approximately four weeks, in that time thousands of people will have walked by your posters or sat and read your posters. This repetition of visual exposure towards potential target audience created by a high impact poster distribution campaign gives you, seeking political office as president, senator, house of representative, governor, chairman, councillor, federal & state law makers, the highest chance of being remembered and therefore voted for.

WE PASTE 2023 ELECTION CAMPAIGN POSTERS IN NIGERIA.

Contact:
Symmetric Communications.

NIGERIA POSTER ADVERTISING

Are you always looking for new and exciting ways to advertise?

We here at Symmetric Poster Distribution have over 15 years’ experience in high impact poster distribution and pasting campaigns in Nigeria.

Having participated in 4 cycles of elections in Nigeria, since 2007, with years of practical experience in professional poster pasting working for different politicians, aspirants and political parties across Nigeria in Presidential, National
Assembly, States and Local Government elections in Nigeria.

We have wealth of experience in pasting political campaign posters in Lagos, and Nationwide.

Professionally executed poster advertising campaigns have a wide and high target market influence, reaching thousands of members of the public daily. When an event is publicised with a high impact poster distribution campaign the public are bombarded by visual advertisements (posters) for your production/event. In one day a single member of the public may see a hundreds of your posters or even thousands of your posters and of course every single poster might be seen and read by hundreds or even thousands of potential audience, voters, electorate, etc.

Research shows that the average lifespan of a poster is approximately four weeks, in that time thousands of people will have walked by your posters or sat and read your posters. This repetition of visual exposure towards potential target audience created by a high impact poster distribution campaign gives you, seeking political office as president, senator, house of representative, governor, chairman, councillor, federal & state law makers, the highest chance of being remembered and therefore voted for.

WE PASTE 2023 ELECTION CAMPAIGN POSTERS IN NIGERIA.

Contact:
Symmetric Communications.

NIGERIA POSTER ADVERTISING

Are you always looking for new and exciting ways to advertise?

We here at Symmetric Poster Distribution have over 15 years’ experience in high impact poster distribution and pasting campaigns in Nigeria.

Having participated in 4 cycles of elections in Nigeria, since 2007, with years of practical experience in professional poster pasting working for different politicians, aspirants and political parties across Nigeria in Presidential, National
Assembly, States and Local Government elections in Nigeria.

We have wealth of experience in pasting political campaign posters in Lagos, and Nationwide.

Professionally executed poster advertising campaigns have a wide and high target market influence, reaching thousands of members of the public daily. When an event is publicised with a high impact poster distribution campaign the public are bombarded by visual advertisements (posters) for your production/event. In one day a single member of the public may see a hundreds of your posters or even thousands of your posters and of course every single poster might be seen and read by hundreds or even thousands of potential audience, voters, electorate, etc.

Research shows that the average lifespan of a poster is approximately four weeks, in that time thousands of people will have walked by your posters or sat and read your posters. This repetition of visual exposure towards potential target audience created by a high impact poster distribution campaign gives you, seeking political office as president, senator, house of representative, governor, chairman, councillor, federal & state law makers, the highest chance of being remembered and therefore voted for.

WE PASTE 2023 ELECTION CAMPAIGN POSTERS IN NIGERIA.

Contact:
Symmetric Communications.

NIGERIA POSTER ADVERTISING

Are you always looking for new and exciting ways to advertise?

We here at Symmetric Poster Distribution have over 15 years’ experience in high impact poster distribution and pasting campaigns in Nigeria.

Having participated in 4 cycles of elections in Nigeria, since 2007, with years of practical experience in professional poster pasting working for different politicians, aspirants and political parties across Nigeria in Presidential, National
Assembly, States and Local Government elections in Nigeria.

We have wealth of experience in pasting political campaign posters in Lagos, and Nationwide.

Professionally executed poster advertising campaigns have a wide and high target market influence, reaching thousands of members of the public daily. When an event is publicised with a high impact poster distribution campaign the public are bombarded by visual advertisements (posters) for your production/event. In one day a single member of the public may see a hundreds of your posters or even thousands of your posters and of course every single poster might be seen and read by hundreds or even thousands of potential audience, voters, electorate, etc.

Research shows that the average lifespan of a poster is approximately four weeks, in that time thousands of people will have walked by your posters or sat and read your posters. This repetition of visual exposure towards potential target audience created by a high impact poster distribution campaign gives you, seeking political office as president, senator, house of representative, governor, chairman, councillor, federal & state law makers, the highest chance of being remembered and therefore voted for.

WE PASTE 2023 ELECTION CAMPAIGN POSTERS IN NIGERIA.

Contact:
Symmetric Communications.

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

WHAT SEA SALT CAN DO FOR YOU!

- Effective for Skin Care and treatment of skin infections

- Improves Oral Health and treats mouth infections

- Provides Relief From Rheumatism & Arthritis

- Encourages Exfoliation

- Relieves Symptoms of Psoriasis

- Cures Body Odour

- Maintains Electrolyte Balance in the body

- Treats Acne/Pimples & Aching Feet

- It Encourages Restful & Sound Sleep

- Gives Relief from Muscle Cramps

- Eye Care

- Reduces Acidity in The Body System

- Treats Genital Warts

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

NIGERIA 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

2023 and voters’ apathy

By Tayo Ogunbiyi
06 August 2022 | 6:55 am

Voters check for details of eligible voters pasted on the wall at a polling station during the Anambra State governorship election at Isuofia, southeast Nigeria, on November 6, 2021. – Voters in the restive southeastern Nigerian state of Anambra go to the polls on November 6, 2021, amid a massive police deployment, in a key test of electoral credibility ahead of a presidential race less than 18 months away. More than 30,000 police have been deployed to Anambra, the heart of a region where an outlawed separatist movement has been blamed for a string of attacks on police and election offices.

The recently concluded governorship election in Osun State has once again brought to fore the issue of voters’ apathy in the country. According to reports, out of the over 1,955,657 registered voters in the state, only a little over 800,000 turned out on Election Day.

A similar scenario played out in the last Local Government election in Lagos State where not up to 18% of the total registered voters actually voted during the election.

In the 2019 Governorship election in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won by 739,445 votes. Whereas a total number of 6,570,291 voters registered for the election, the overall number of voters that took part in the poll was not up to a million.

Democracy is about the choice that the people make. Of all the various definitions of democracy, the most universally famous is the one that refers to it as the government of the people by the people and for the people.

The implication of the definition is that the people give impetus to democracy. In essence, you cannot have democracy without the people. The people set democracy in motion. However, in Nigeria, the people do not seem to understand the democratic power they wield.

The word ‘apathy’, which has its source in Greek, plainly means ‘without feelings’. According to Victor Marie Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic Movement, ‘the apathetic are alive but without feelings, so they are not living. They are the living dead’.

Therefore, in line with Hugo’s line of thought, voters’ apathy simply refers to the insensitivity of the people towards the electoral process, particularly voting.

According to a statistics from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, only about 35% of the over, 70million who registered to vote in the 2011 general elections really participated in the voting process. This implies that over 65% of registered voters did not vote.

This dangerous trend must be a source of serious concern to all genuine stakeholders in the polity.

This growing trend has grievous implications on the prospect of democracy in the country. For one, it ensures that that leaders who attain political power via the votes of the minority rule over the majority.

Second, because they do not get to power through the votes of the majority, they tend to espouse self-seeking agenda.

Third, it casts serious aspersion on the kind of democracy we practice.

Furthermore, it makes it a bit hypocritical for those who did not turn out to vote to criticize those who were elected through the same process that they shunned. As it is often said, ‘you cannot eat your cake and have it’.

Many factors are responsible for voters’ apathy in the country. Some are of the view that their votes do not really count. They believe, either rightly or wrongly, that the outcome of most elections are pre-determined.

In addition, some believe that the electoral process is replete with violence, while some consider the political class undeserving of their time because of their perceived insincerity to electoral promises.

Equally, especially, in the case of Local Council elections, many are of the view that that tier of government does not really do much to deserve anyone’s trouble.

However, irrespective of the validity of the reasons, as highlighted above, it is counterproductive for the people to shun polls in a democracy. Some people gave their lives for the democracy that we enjoy today. It is, therefore, a great injustice to their memories, if this culture of voters’ apathy continues.

If democracy is to truly be the government of the people and for the people, the people must own the process from the beginning to the end. Active involvement in the political process signifies that everyone is a critical stakeholder, having the best interest of the country at heart. It is a practical demonstration of being a responsible citizen.

To lure the people back to the polls, elected political leaders at all levels, should not take the electorates for granted. It is sheer treachery for an elected leader to ignore his/her electoral promises while in power.

Compatriots who ignore all difficulties in order to participate in voting ought to be given a better deal. In addition, to give credibility to the electoral process, the practice of turning elections into a ‘do or die’ affair should be discouraged.

Additionally, INEC, political parties, the civil society, the press and other stakeholders should give greater attention to voters’ education as well as other enlightenment campaigns that could re-enact the confidence of the people in the electoral process.

It is important to stress that the worst illiterate is the political illiterate who take no part in the political process. Sadly, he does not understand that everything depends on political decisions.

Unfortunately, the politically dormant even prides himself on his political ignorance by openly sticking out his chest that he hates politics. He does not know that from his political apathy comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt and incompetent public officials.

Democracy is best defended by those it is meant for; the people. But for democracy to really serve the interest of the people, they must respect all democratic norms and principles. Today, we all look at some of the advanced democracies of the world with envy.

The truth, however, is that they have achieved greatness through the strengthening of grassroots democracy. Of course, there is no other way through which democracy could be strengthened other than involvement of the majority in democratic process.

Ogunbiyi is Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

BENEFITS OF SUNFLOWER SEEDS

Munching on sunflower seeds can benefit more than just your taste buds. Here are some ways that adding sunflower seeds to your diet may benefit your health.

1. Good for your heart

Sunflower seeds are high in nutrients that your heart loves. This includes fiber, vitamins, healthy fats, and minerals. Research suggests that a diet high in seeds can help keep your heart healthy and may protect against heart disease.

Plus, snacking on sunflower seeds may help keep cholesterol and blood pressure levels in check. A 2012 study in 22 women with type 2 diabetes found that eating 30 grams of sunflower seed kernels per day for 3 weeks helped significantly reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

2. High in antioxidants

Sunflower seeds are chock-full of compounds (like antioxidants) that help keep your bod healthy.

These tiny seeds contain a variety of antioxidant compounds including chlorogenic acid, vitamin E, and more. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage that might lead to disease.

A diet high in antioxidants is linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases. For example, a 2018 review of 69 studies found that having higher blood levels and dietary intake of vitamin E was associated with a lower risk of cancer, stroke, and death from all causes. That means it may even help you live a longer life.

3. May help promote healthy blood sugar levels

Eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet is one of the best ways to keep your blood sugar at a healthy level.

Some nutrients (like protein, fiber, and magnesium) are especially important for blood sugar regulation. Sunflower seeds are a great source of these nutrients and make a healthy choice for peeps both with and without diabetes.

Try sprinkling sunflower seeds on top of a green salad or pair sunflower seed butter with apple slices for a blood sugar-friendly snack.

4. Rich in minerals

Sunflower seeds are packed with important minerals like magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium. Making sure you get enough mineral-rich foods in your diet is important because these nutrients do a lot for your bod.

For example, zinc is important for a healthy immune response. Want well-functioning antioxidant enzymes? (Hint: yes, you do.) Selenium is essential. Magnesium is a superstar mineral that’s essential for healthy stress response, blood sugar regulation, and more.

Adding mineral-rich foods like sunflower seeds to your diet can help ensure you’re getting the recommended amount of these nutrients on the reg.

5. Convenient and filling snack

Sunflower seeds are portable and super filling thanks to plenty of protein, fat, and fiber. That means they’re a smart snack if you’re on the run.

Protein is the most filling of the macronutrients and sunflower seeds provide 5.4 grams per ounce, which is pretty good for a plant-based protein source. Plus, they pack in fiber and healthy fats, making them a balanced snack.

Try keeping a pack of sunflower seeds in your bag or backpack so you have a healthy option when hunger strikes.

RAW SUNFLOWER SEEDS FOR SALE IN LAGOS.
Contact:

BENEFITS OF SUNFLOWER SEEDS

Munching on sunflower seeds can benefit more than just your taste buds. Here are some ways that adding sunflower seeds to your diet may benefit your health.

1. Good for your heart

Sunflower seeds are high in nutrients that your heart loves. This includes fiber, vitamins, healthy fats, and minerals. Research suggests that a diet high in seeds can help keep your heart healthy and may protect against heart disease.

Plus, snacking on sunflower seeds may help keep cholesterol and blood pressure levels in check. A 2012 study in 22 women with type 2 diabetes found that eating 30 grams of sunflower seed kernels per day for 3 weeks helped significantly reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

2. High in antioxidants

Sunflower seeds are chock-full of compounds (like antioxidants) that help keep your bod healthy.

These tiny seeds contain a variety of antioxidant compounds including chlorogenic acid, vitamin E, and more. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage that might lead to disease.

A diet high in antioxidants is linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases. For example, a 2018 review of 69 studies found that having higher blood levels and dietary intake of vitamin E was associated with a lower risk of cancer, stroke, and death from all causes. That means it may even help you live a longer life.

3. May help promote healthy blood sugar levels

Eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet is one of the best ways to keep your blood sugar at a healthy level.

Some nutrients (like protein, fiber, and magnesium) are especially important for blood sugar regulation. Sunflower seeds are a great source of these nutrients and make a healthy choice for peeps both with and without diabetes.

Try sprinkling sunflower seeds on top of a green salad or pair sunflower seed butter with apple slices for a blood sugar-friendly snack.

4. Rich in minerals

Sunflower seeds are packed with important minerals like magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium. Making sure you get enough mineral-rich foods in your diet is important because these nutrients do a lot for your bod.

For example, zinc is important for a healthy immune response. Want well-functioning antioxidant enzymes? (Hint: yes, you do.) Selenium is essential. Magnesium is a superstar mineral that’s essential for healthy stress response, blood sugar regulation, and more.

Adding mineral-rich foods like sunflower seeds to your diet can help ensure you’re getting the recommended amount of these nutrients on the reg.

5. Convenient and filling snack

Sunflower seeds are portable and super filling thanks to plenty of protein, fat, and fiber. That means they’re a smart snack if you’re on the run.

Protein is the most filling of the macronutrients and sunflower seeds provide 5.4 grams per ounce, which is pretty good for a plant-based protein source. Plus, they pack in fiber and healthy fats, making them a balanced snack.

Try keeping a pack of sunflower seeds in your bag or backpack so you have a healthy option when hunger strikes.

RAW SUNFLOWER SEEDS FOR SALE IN LAGOS.
Contact: