The Lagos State Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement has organized a one-day advocacy program focused on voter education as part of its mandate to enhance civic awareness and empower the electorate.
The event, held on Thursday at the Palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, drew a diverse audience eager to learn about their civic rights and responsibilities.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen, underscored the significance of the initiative, emphasizing its role in bridging the gap between the government and the electorate.
According to a statement issued by the agency’s spokesperson, Olatokunbo Dawodu, Dr. Tajudeen explained, “This is the first time we are holding such an event, and we chose Ikorodu to kick off the programme. It is important for you to know both your rights and responsibilities. This knowledge will help you understand the government policies and how you can benefit from them. We also have on the ground other government agencies because we want you to know about other Lagos State Government’s policies and initiatives that can be of benefit to you.”
He highlighted the profound influence of fulfilling civic responsibilities, noting how voter apathy could undermine the democratic process.
“The power attached to the fulfillment of civic responsibility is potent to the extent that it influences the decision-making process of a government,” he said.
To ensure residents benefit from the state’s resources, Tajudeen emphasized the importance of registering with the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency.
This registration, he explained, is pivotal in accessing numerous government benefits, including healthcare and developmental initiatives.
The event also served as a platform to introduce other impactful programs, including the Mother and Infant Child Health Development Programme, designed to support vulnerable pregnant women with high-quality healthcare services.
The program aims to ensure the well-being of mothers and their newborns, starting with public health centers in Ikorodu before expanding to other parts of Lagos.
One of the highlights was the Ilera-Eko health initiative, a flagship program of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration that guarantees access to healthcare for all Lagos residents.
Tajudeen reiterated the importance of the initiative, stating, “Ilera-Eko is a right of all Lagos residents, being one of the dividends of democracy promised by the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.”
A former Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Otunba Ayodele Elesho, expressed his gratitude for the voter education initiative.
Reflecting on Ikorodu’s significant political engagement, he remarked on the area’s outstanding performance in the last state election, which saw the local government record the highest number of votes.
The advocacy program marks the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at fostering an informed and proactive electorate in Lagos State.
By combining voter education with access to essential services, the government seeks to create a more engaged and empowered populace.
