The next election is an opportunity to see the change you want become a reality

Do not be bullied into silence. Technology has empowered ordinary people as never before to make a huge difference. There is a lot of work to be done. The truth is that today you do not need permission to make a difference.

Lend your voice to the important debate about the future. Listen to each other , that is one major way we can help overcome the challenges ahead. Anyone can make a difference. Democracy must be inclusive.

 The politicians do not invest in policies that will benefit ordinary people , rather they invest in traditional rulers, opinion/community leaders ,religious leaders, pilgrimage and political agents/brokers to help them win the next election because it's cheaper. 

No good education, no investment in research and innovation, entrepreneurship,  no adequate electricity, no internet/broadband, no good healthcare services, no jobs, no pensions, no good drinking water, poor transport network, air ports, sea ports, poor urbanisation, insecurity everywhere, etc. 

They clampdown on dissents and opposition , anyone against the government is an enemy. The Political agents and online supporters are only interested in what they will get. Most times you hear them asking their fans to recommend political offices that will suit them,;"attracted by prospects of power and riches".

The political system is designed to serve the interest of the few, their families, friends and political associates. Now look at this scenario: The President is also the Petroleum Minister, his Chief Of Staff is the Executive Director of NNPC, another, is the Managing Director of the country's apex oil company, etc. That's exactly the whole point. It reduces accountability, often in violation of the country's laws. 

Resources at the local level is marred by elite capture thereby killing development. When one leaves office, he wants his son, brother and in-law to succeed him. They like things the way they are. All these happen because of ignorance. They simply want to determine what ordinary people can hear and see. 

"For our future world to be livable the heroes must win their struggle. But the villains have the guns and the money and to date they have usually prevailed. That will continue unless we radically change our approach"- Professor Sir, Paul Collier: The Bottom Billion.

The only weapon for change is Information. Ensure you register to vote. Guard your voter card to support any political party offering the restructuring of the political system and better public services.

Do not sell your voter card to party agents or local politicians so as not to deprive you the opportunity to vote. Your vote is the only power you have to see the change you want in the society. Selling your voter card or collecting money from the politicians will deprive you the opportunity to vote, so change will not happen.

The next election is an opportunity to make a difference. Be your own man or woman, take a better stand for the future.

         Uche Okeke