By Justina Auta
An NGO, BAOBAB for Women’s Rights, on Thursday advised the electorate to shun vote buying and selling in the upcoming general elections.
The organisation urged voters not to be carried away by the temporary gifts of food, cash and other incentives, which has been the strategy of bad and unpatriotic politicians.
Ms. Bunmi Dipo-Salami, the Executive Director of the organisation, gave the advice in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.
Dipo-Salami said: “BAOBAB calls on the electorate not to be carried away by the temporary gifts of food, cash and other incentives, which has been the strategy of vote buying and selling.
“Voting for candidates who believe in women’s inclusion, who will advance their interests, and who will position them in critical areas is in the best interest of our dear but battered country.
“We believe that what a woman can not do can not be done, so please elect Nigerians who will bring in women to help heal our land.”
She noted the poor representation of women in elective and appointive positions, which had increased gender inequality, discrimination and addressing challenges affecting women.
She therefore advised Nigerians, especially women, to vote for candidates whose antecedents showed their commitment towards prioritising women’s development, girl-child education and eliminating Gender Based Violence for the benefit of the nation.
“As we all know, politics is a game of numbers and records have shown that more women vote during elections.
“While you cast your vote remember that we need to bring in competent, capable and compassionate leaders, whether male or female, who will prioritise women’s development for the benefit of the nation.”
She also called on the government to ensure that security agencies protect voters and make sure that peace reign at all polling units so that Nigerians, especially women, can cast their votes with no threats to their lives.
