Key Takeaways
- An 85-year-old voter advocates for positive governance in Osun State.
- Pa Odejide Mosunmoye emphasizes the significance of community-oriented leadership.
- Elderly voters received priority during the voting process.
- Voting commenced at 8:40 am with the proper accreditation procedures followed.
In a bid to ensure a governance system that caters to every segment of society, an 85-year-old voter, Pa Odejide Mosunmoye, articulated his aspirations for better leadership in Osun State. Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after casting his ballot at Unit 3, Ward 9, AUD School in Atile, Ikire, Mosunmoye conveyed his hopes for inclusive governance.
“I came out in my old age to vote today for the candidate of my choice because I want to see better governance in Osun,” he stated. His dedication to participating in the electoral process reflects a long history of civic engagement, having voted since the days of renowned Nigerian leader Obafemi Awolowo. Mosunmoye recognized the imperfections inherent in any government but urged citizens to strive for selecting the best leaders available.
“What will happen is in the hands of God, but we just have to play our own part,” he added, emphasizing the shared responsibility of citizens in shaping their governance.
According to NAN, the voting process highlighted respect for the elderly, as men and women of advanced age were given priority to cast their votes. This approach aligns with the broader goal of encouraging participation from all demographics in the electoral process.
Voting began at around 8:40 am, with political party agents participating after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Presiding Officer allowed them to inspect the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and ballot papers. This transparency is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and instilling public confidence in the outcomes.
Why This Matters
The active participation of senior citizens like Mosunmoye showcases the vital role of engagement in democracy. Their insights and experiences underscore the importance of choosing leaders who prioritize the welfare of all citizens, reinforcing the need for governance that is both accountable and responsive.