Recently, I witnessed the distribution of sewn Ankara to some party members at an APC demonstration gathering in Idah. That moment raised a question that deserves the attention of every voter, regardless of political affiliation. Should elections be remembered for the gifts distributed during campaigns or for the quality of leadership they produce? Every political party should be held to the same standard. Democracy is strongest when citizens evaluate ideas, integrity, competence, and service rather than campaign souvenirs.
In Nigeria, campaign periods are often marked by the distribution of clothing, food, cash, and other materials. Such items may be lawful campaign merchandise or expressions of party support, but they cannot substitute for good governance. A piece of cloth cannot create jobs, build roads, improve hospitals, strengthen schools, or provide security. It may bring satisfaction for a moment, but it cannot solve the challenges that confront communities every day.
The first duty of a qualified electorate is to think beyond the campaign season. Every vote carries consequences that extend far beyond election day. Voters should examine a candidate’s character, record of service, commitment to accountability, and practical plans for development. Elections are not opportunities to collect gifts. They are opportunities to determine the future of a community.
History shows that politicians often respond to the expectations of the people. When citizens demand transparency, competence, and measurable results, political competition becomes more meaningful. When campaigns revolve around material gifts, serious conversations about education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, youth employment, and economic growth are pushed aside. Democracy flourishes when ideas replace inducements as the basis of political engagement.
Kogi East deserves leadership that respects the intelligence and dignity of its people. Every candidate should be asked difficult questions. What have you accomplished in public service? How will you improve the economy? What is your plan for education, healthcare, security, and employment? These questions are worth far more than any item distributed during a political campaign because they determine the quality of life long after the election has ended.
The cloth will fade. Roads will remain. Schools will remain. Hospitals will remain. The opportunities created or neglected by those elected will remain. Long after campaign materials have disappeared, the consequences of the ballot will still shape families and communities. Let every voter choose with wisdom, conviction, and a clear vision for the future. A mature democracy is built not on what politicians give away during campaigns, but on the leaders citizens choose to entrust with the future.
– Inah Boniface Ocholi writes from Ayah – Igalamela/Odolu LGA, Kogi state.
08152094428 (SMS Only)
