The local government elections held on Saturday in Ondo State revealed a glaring lack of interest from residents, particularly in Okitipupa Local Government Area. Many people in the area either stayed home or went about their daily routines, citing disillusionment with the electoral process and frustration over the state of the economy.
Observers noted an unusual scene for an election day. Instead of crowded polling centers, roads were filled with private and commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and even traders who had opened their shops for business. This apathy among voters was widespread, with many openly expressing doubts about whether their votes would make any difference.
In interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), residents voiced their dissatisfaction and called for urgent government action to address the nation’s economic struggles. A commercial driver named Segun, working at Okitipupa New Garage, explained why he didn’t bother to vote. He lamented that past elections had brought no improvements to his life, only deepened hardship and hunger. For him, the electoral process no longer held any promise.
“What have we gained from all the elections we’ve participated in? Nothing but suffering. I no longer have any interest in voting,” Segun said.
Another resident, Mr. Charles Ikuedowo, a commercial motorcyclist, echoed these concerns. He emphasized the harsh realities of everyday life, stating that the only solution was to focus on work to feed his family. For Ikuedowo, survival took precedence over voting.
Madam Felicia Akingbaso, a beverage vendor, was equally disillusioned. She considered voting a futile exercise, pointing out that politicians often fail to deliver on their campaign promises once elected. Her view reflects a broader sentiment of mistrust in political leaders, whom many see as more interested in securing power than in addressing citizens’ needs.
“Politicians make sweet promises during campaigns, but the moment they win, they disappear,” Akingbaso lamented.
Similarly, a charcoal dealer named Yetunde dismissed voting as a waste of time. Her sentiment reinforced the growing frustration among residents, who believe that the current system does little to improve their lives or offer meaningful change.
The widespread voter apathy in Okitipupa and other parts of Ondo State underscores a deeper issue: the erosion of public trust in the electoral process and governance. Many residents believe that their participation will not yield tangible benefits, leading them to disengage from democratic processes entirely.
This situation highlights an urgent need for governments at all levels to rebuild trust by addressing economic challenges and ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the people. Without such efforts, the disconnect between citizens and the political system is likely to deepen, jeopardizing the foundation of democratic governance in the region.
