by Damilola Jagun

The Nigerian general elections is imminent, and quite a number of people are really interested in making sure their votes count, this time around.

In view of this, we bring you 20 Laws of Democracy – all you need to know about the forthcoming general elections.

1. register to vote
Register so that you have electoral say. It is your fundamental human right. A voter’s card is a ticket of hope, a symbol of possibility and a confirmation of liberty. It is your weapon against oppression. It is unlike your international passport because no government can withdraw it.

2. Do not sell your vote

Selling your vote to a politician takes away your moral rights to question his or her actions. Selling your vote is moral treason, a betrayal of the wishes and aspirations of the people of your country. A vote sold is a destiny forsaken. Do not become a political Esau.

3. Cast a vote
Casting a vote is the most important civic duty a citizen undertakes in the pursuit of prosperity for his nation and self. Do note leave this responsibility of voting to others. The may vote for the wrong person or reason.Cast a vote; it is a worthwhile exercise. It is too risky to leave the responsibility of voting to others.

 

4. Defend your vote with vigilance
When you defend your vote, you defend you country, you liberty and self dignity. Your vigilance will ensure that elections in your country are free and fair. The man who defends his vote defends his nation, this is the honourable thing for every citizen to do. Defend your vote; it is defense of your citizenship.

 

5. Seek Information Consistently
You need Information to make sound decisions in a democracy.An uninformed choice is a disadvantage to you and your side of the political divide.Informed choices reduce the chances of political disappointments. It helps to manage expectations from both the leaders and the led.Seek information consistently because informed people are much harder to manipulate.

 

6. Shun Electoral Crime
An electoral crime is the gravest assault any citizen could commit against the collective will of his people.Electoral crime is any act that hinders free and fair elections e.g:stuffng ballot boxes, voting more than once etc.Anyone who engages in electoral crimes is a rogue who works against the progress of his people. Do not play with the destiny of your people for your own selfish gains.Shun electoral crime.
7. Articulate And Push Your Position (The A&P Rule)

In a democracy, an articulated and very well shared opinion energizes the electorate. Clear pinions can help shape government policies . Articulate and push your opinion ,it is a noble duty to self , family and society.

 

8. Don’t be Afraid To Be In Opposition

Opposition is always a blessing to Democracy.Opposition is a constitutional caution that ensures that the voice of the minority is heard.Opposition adds value to he wisdom of the majority and may help fast track positive change. Do not be afraid of being in opposition. Opposition creates checks and balances.

 

9. Avoid Pure Ethnic Considerations
Playing the ethnic card hampers progress in any multi- ethnic nation.Make your electoral choice based on competence, integrity and responsiveness. Enduring prosperity is not guaranteed by ethnic affliation or coloration. Never vote on the basis of ethnicity or religion alone.
10. Show Tolerance To Dissenting Opinions

The genius of democracy lies in its neutrality to multiple opinions,ideology or believes. A show of respect to dissenting opinions creates an atmosphere for better understanding from different schools of thought .Show tolerance to people who have a different opinion from yours; it is not an act of cowardice or weakness