As the 2027 elections draw near, Nigerians have been urged to take greater responsibility in shaping the nation’s future through informed voting, with a warning that the country may not fully benefit from democracy unless citizens prioritize electing credible leaders.
This advice was given by Chief Toyin Amuzu, an aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP who is vying to represent Abeokuta South Federal Constituency as a member of the House of Representatives during a recent engagement in Abeokuta.
The aspirant, popularly known as TA, who said he is waxing stronger in his bid for the 2027 race, expressed concern over Nigeria’s slow pace of development compared to other nations. He noted that his experiences abroad often leave him with a sense of disappointment when he compares Nigeria’s infrastructural and institutional gaps with the progress recorded in more advanced societies.
“I feel ashamed when I travel out and see the level of development in other countries. Nigerians may not truly enjoy democracy until people begin to take voting- in the right individuals as a personal and collective responsibility,” he said.
Amuzu emphasised that sustainable development can only be achieved when citizens deliberately choose leaders with proven pedigree, competence, integrity and a genuine fear of God and work with them to achieve certain milestones.
According to him, developed nations have built strong systems through visionary leadership, stressing that Nigeria’s transformation must equally be driven by Nigerians themselves. “Let us work together to build a formidable society and I won’t disappoint you,” he said.
He further argued that while government often bears the brunt of public criticism, citizens also share in the responsibility for poor governance due to their voting patterns.
“We blame the government, but followers are also guilty. Too often, we allow religion, political affiliation and sentiments to determine our choices instead of putting the right peg in the right hole, in this 2027 elections we must shun politics of rice and money. I am here to serve and not make empty promises. I believe we can work together” he stated.
The PDP aspirant lamented what he described as a long-standing trend where “the worst of us have ruled the best of us,” citing a lack of integrity, patriotism and sincerity among many past leaders. He questioned why citizens continue to support leaders who fail to meet their expectations.
The house of Representatives hopeful asked “Why do we support our oppressors and continue to suffer, when we have the power to vote them out?”
Amuzu also decried the persistent lack of basic amenities such as electricity, potable water and good roads, describing them as fundamental responsibilities of government that should not be used as tools for political manipulation.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, he urged eligible Nigerians to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participating actively in the electoral process.
“Things cannot change if we sit down and complain. This is the time to act. Let us seize the opportunity, get our voter cards and vote massively for the right candidates,” he concluded.
