The Power of the Ballot: A Panacea to Bad Governance

By Ishola Ayodele

In the face of bad governance, it’s natural to feel angry and want to take action. However, it’s crucial to channel this anger wisely. If there is anything politicians fear most, it is your vote. That’s why they are willing to break the bank to buy it. The sad reality, however, is that many people do not fully grasp the power of their ballot.

*The 2020 U.S. Presidential Election: A Lesson in Democratic Power*
The 2020 U.S. presidential election offers a valuable lesson in this regard. Dissatisfied with the leadership of Donald Trump, Americans didn’t resort to destructive protests. Instead, they exercised their right to vote. This led to an unprecedented turnout, with over 80 million Americans casting their ballots to elect Joe Biden. This peaceful demonstration of democratic power underscores the impact of informed and determined voting.

In Nigeria, we can learn from this example. Before taking to the streets to protest against leaders like Tinubu, let’s first scrutinize the performance of our local government chairmen. What policies and programs have they implemented to alleviate poverty in our areas? How are they utilizing the monthly LGA allocations? The saying goes, “A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot say where he dried his body.” Understanding the root of our issues is essential before addressing them.

*The Ballot is Mightier than the Brick*
The power of the ballot is mightier than the brick. Protesting with violence can often be counterproductive, leading to chaos and destruction without bringing about meaningful change. On the other hand, the ballot represents a peaceful yet powerful tool for demanding good governance, accountability, and transparency.

“To be angry is easy, but to be angry for the right reason and at the right person takes wisdom,” as I often say. This wisdom should guide our actions. Instead of hurling bricks in frustration, let’s hurl our votes in determination. By participating in elections and holding our leaders accountable through our votes, we can create a better future for ourselves and build a Nigeria where every citizen can thrive.

*Conclusion*

The ballot is our most powerful weapon against bad governance. Let’s harness this power to demand accountability and transparency. Let us protest wisely, using our ballots to bring about change. As the African proverb goes, “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.” Collective action through informed voting is essential for meaningful change. By doing so, we can create a better future for ourselves and build a Nigeria where every citizen can thrive. The power is in our hands, let us learn when and how to use it well.

© Ishola Ayodele 2024
Ishola Ayodele is Public Affairs Commentator and Strategic Communication Expert. ishopr2015@gmail.com