On Saturday, February 25, Nigerian electorates, registered and endorsed as credible voters by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, are expected to make it to their various designated polling units to decide who will govern them at the national level for the next four years. Based on existing data of registered voters by INEC and the political issues that have surfaced in the country in the last couple of months, it is expected that the 2023 polls will record massive turn out at both the national and the state levels.
However, while evidences have shown that quite a number of Nigerians are excited about the forthcoming general election which is fewer than five days away, it is important for the Nigerian electorates to note the general and some specific facts about the coming elections that will prepare and enable them to exercise their franchise in a peaceful and ethical manner.
The following are tips on how the Nigerian electorates can brace for the coming elections:
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Understand voting is your civic responsibility and civic right.
As a citizen, one of your obligations to your state is to actively participate in its process leading to the establishment of a new institution of government which will be saddled with the responsibility of looking over your security and welfare. It is also your prerogative as a citizen to vote for any individual or party you deem fit for the task among alternatives presented to you.
It is important to understand that the government is an institution of the state. Thus, Whether you feel included in or alienated from the government of the past should not deprive you of the opportunity to influence the collective choice of a new government towards a better future for your state.
Be excited about exercising your franchise and trust in the process.
Since voters apathy often results from lack of motivation of the electorates and lack of trust in the system, being intentionally optimistic and having trust in the process is a good way to cope with temptations to not participate in the election.
Be familiar with your Polling Unit.
Your polling unit is where you are expected to cast your vote on the election day. Your polling unit is the closest voting venue to you based on the address you registered during the voters registration exercise. It is generally advised to visit your polling unit a day or two days prior to the election date as this will enable you to familiarize yourself with the terrain and confirm your details on the voters registration lists pasted at the venue.
Don’t Forget your PVC.
Your PVC is your identity without which you cannot not be allowed to exercise your franchise. It is recommended to always keep your PVC handy and within reach a day or two days to the election date. You can place the PVC in the pocket of the cloth you intend to wear to your polling unit the night before.
Be resolute about your choice of candidate.
Before the election day, one is expected to have reached a decision about who one intends to vote for. However, when you leave your home for the polling unit, ensure you are still clear about the motive or rational behind your choice because at the polling unit you will likely meet party agents and loyalists who may hope to influence your decision. The election day is not a day to be credulous or entertain indecision.
On Accreditations and Voting
With your PVC you will be mobilized for accreditation based on the direction of the INEC officials at your designated polling unit. After accreditation, you will be presented with ink and a ballot paper with which to cast your vote.
Note that voting is a secrete ballot system. You will be directed to a cubicle where you can cast your vote privately.
To avoid casting a void vote, ensure the ink is appropriately applied to the box allotted to your preferred party and does not smear on other parts of the ballot paper. The ballot paper should be folded vertically and dropped into the ballot box.
What next after voting?
After casting your vote, you may stay behind to witness the collation and announcement of results. However, if you sense a likelihood of a security threat erupting at the polling unit, you should immediately leave the venue. You can continue to follow the general exercise on one of your local TV stations at home.