- Elections should not be delayed for Ramadan or Lent.
- Voting is a crucial civic responsibility.
- Nigeria needs to normalize election day procedures.
- Civic education should start from a young age.
- Electronic transmission of results has safeguards.
A Call for Civic Duty Over Religious Scheduling
Senator Imasuen articulated his firm belief that religious commitments should not interfere with the democratic process. He pointed out that in countries he’s familiar with, people often vote during work hours, emphasizing that this is a normal part of civic life. “You get ready to go to work on election day, go to your vote and go back to work,” he explained. He wants Nigerians to adopt a similar attitude, where casting a ballot is a routine task, not a disruption.
Changing Nigeria’s Election Mindset
The senator highlighted a critical need to alter how Nigerians perceive and approach elections. He suggested that elections are currently viewed as extraordinary events rather than a regular civic duty. To foster this change, Imasuen advocated for robust civic education programs, starting from primary school all the way through high school. “All of us, we need to change our mindset. We need to understand that this is a civic responsibility that all of us hold in the country. To vote and live,” he urged.
Technical Safeguards for Electronic Transmission
Addressing concerns about the electronic transmission of election results, Senator Imasuen defended its integrity. He acknowledged that transmission can fail due to communication issues. However, he assured that in such cases, the signed and stamped EC8A forms, countersigned by presiding officers and candidates or their agents, serve as the primary source for collating and declaring results. This ensures that even with technical hitches, the electoral outcome remains legitimate.
Ensuring a Seamless Electoral Process
Imasuen also called for collaborative efforts to ensure smooth elections. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide materials on time and encouraged the public to conduct themselves appropriately on election day to make the process seamless. He stressed that both institutions and citizens have a role to play in upholding the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system.
The Importance of Early Civic Education
The senator reiterated the vital role of early civic education. He believes that instilling a sense of civic responsibility from a young age is far more effective than trying to change attitudes in adulthood. “If we wait until they become adults, that will begin to change them at that point. It will become very difficult. In most countries, you notice that attitude starts from elementary school. They’re already telling them who they are, what the country owes them,” he observed.
It’s important to note that while Senator Imasuen spoke on these matters, the debate around election scheduling and religious holidays is a recurring one in many democracies. Finding a balance that respects both civic duties and religious freedoms remains a key challenge for electoral bodies worldwide.
Key Takeaways from Senator Imasuen’s Stance:
| Aspect | Senator Imasuen’s View |
|---|---|
| Election Scheduling vs. Religious Observances | Religious dates should not dictate election dates. |
| Civic Responsibility | Voting is a non-negotiable duty for all citizens. |
| Public Perception of Elections | Needs a shift from viewing elections as unusual to normal. |
| Electronic Transmission | Protected by physical result sheets in case of failure. |
| Civic Education | Crucial to start from elementary school level. |
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