Dare Babalola
Aisha Yesufu, a prominent Nigerian activist and member of the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC), has advised opposition parties to adopt a people-centric approach in their 2027 election campaigns, stressing that citizens are struggling to make ends meet.
In a post via X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Yesufu stated, “Citizens were deliberately impoverished, monies taken away from their pockets and food made expensive so that little tokens will matter to them.”
She urged opposition parties to communicate their message in a way that resonates with the people, saying, “As we go into the 2027 election, the opposition must campaign to the people in the language the people will understand.”
Yesufu suggested that parties should focus on addressing the immediate needs of citizens, saying, “For those who need bread, give them bread with your picture on it. For those who need policies, give them policy documents with your picture on it.”
She emphasised that hunger and poverty cloud judgment, making it difficult for people to think beyond their basic needs. “A hungry man or woman cannot reason. He or she just wants the rumbling in their tummy to stop.”
During election seasons in Nigeria, it’s a common sight to see politicians distributing money, food items, and other handouts to voters.
This practice, often referred to as “vote buying,” has become a contentious issue, with critics arguing that it undermines the democratic process and perpetuates a culture of dependency.
Many politicians justify these actions as a way to connect with citizens and address their immediate needs, but opponents say it creates an unfair advantage and distracts from substantive policy discussions.
