Abayomi Suzan
A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Azeez Babajide Akinloye, has called on residents of Eti-Osa Local Government Area in Lagos State to actively participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a press briefing on Saturday, Akinloye emphasized that voter participation remains essential to the success of any democratic election, stressing that credible leadership can only be achieved when citizens are fully equipped to vote.
He clarified that his advocacy was not politically motivated, stating, “I’m not vying for anything. I’m just a concerned indigene and citizen of Eti-Osa. I went into politics for service—getting things done in my constituency, my hometown, and my village. That has always been my primary motivation.”
Akinloye, who served in the Lagos State House of Assembly from 2003 to 2011 and later represented his constituency in the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019, stressed the importance of electing competent leaders through active civic participation.
“It’s very important that we elect and support those who have the capacity and ability to make a difference in our constituency. You can only vote right if you are registered, and the PVC is the key. Without it, you cannot participate on election day, and that limits your voice in the process,” he said.
He further noted that failing to participate in elections often results in missed opportunities for citizens to influence governance.
“When you have the opportunity to contribute to change and you refuse to do so by not voting, you have not helped the system. You will only end up complaining afterward,” he added.
Explaining ongoing mobilisation efforts within Eti-Osa, the former lawmaker highlighted the role of community-based structures such as the Eti-Osa Indigenous Forum in encouraging voter registration.
According to him, the forum holds monthly meetings across various settlements in the constituency, reaching residents at the grassroots level.
“There are over 50 settlements in Eti-Osa. These meetings rotate among them, and they provide a strong platform for voter education and civic engagement. The turnout is usually significant, with hundreds of people participating,” he said.
Akinloye also urged government agencies and media organisations to intensify awareness campaigns on voter registration, recalling past national mobilisation initiatives as effective tools for civic education.
He further reflected on shifting demographic and electoral dynamics in Eti-Osa, noting that increased urbanisation and population growth have changed the political landscape.
“The Eti-Osa of today is different. There has been massive development and an influx of people. This makes voter awareness and registration even more important for indigenes and residents alike,” he said.
He added that recent electoral outcomes in the area should serve as a wake-up call for greater political engagement among stakeholders.
In his remarks, Akinloye also expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a capable leader with a strong track record.
“I have worked closely with him in the National Assembly and know his capacity. He is a very brilliant man,” he stated.
