Discussion
Details
The attempt is finding the best way to educate the electorates, so they can make good choices in the coming elections and in future.
Mr. Prince Herbert from West African Network of Election Observers (WANEO) delivered a paper from the perspective of an election observer. He observed that voting is civic right and as well a duty of every eligible citizen of the country. Similarly, he pointed out that previous elections in Nigeria have always resulted in post electoral conflicts, which could be reduced by the CSOs if they could all come out immediately after elections to give honest assessment of elections. If this is done, it will make many electorates to check their perspectives after elections.
He also raised the issue of gender as being very important in civic education in Nigeria. Women always participate at elections more than expected. Although the number of women seeking elected offices is still very low, their readiness and participation can be used positively to reach more women.
Suggestions were made on how to proceed on the civic education engagement of the CSOs and the media. Both could continue to work hand-in-hand to create and sponsor platforms for constructive discussions on the achievements and failures of elected office holders, especially on the social and mass media.
The participants corroborated the position of Mr. Prince Herbert, and gave recommendations on practical messages that could be sent to electorates to inform and remind them of their civic duties and rights. These will be incorporated into the Radio programs of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung.
