Oba Adesuyi Haastrup
- says traditional institutions vital in mobilising people for democratic roles
By John Dike, Osogbo
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Olaleke Agboke, has emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in mobilizing citizens for democratic participation.
He spoke during his courtesy and advocacy visit to the Owa Obokun of Ijesa land, Oba (Dr.) Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III.
The visit was part of efforts to enhance grassroots sensitization on the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
Agboke appealed to the monarch to use his royal influence to encourage eligible voters across Ijesa land to take full advantage of the ongoing registration exercise.
He said, “The Continuous Voter Registration is not just a statutory duty of INEC; it is a civic opportunity for every eligible Nigerian to make their voice count.
“We are here today to seek your royal support in ensuring that your subjects—especially youths, women, the aged, and Persons with Disabilities—register and are not left out of the democratic process.”
Agboke reiterated INEC’s commitment to ensuring the process is seamless, inclusive, and accessible, noting that the Commission has put mechanisms in place to give priority attention to vulnerable groups.
In response, Oba Haastrup expressed appreciation for the visit and commended INEC’s proactive approach to civic engagement.
The royal father assured the Commission of the palace’s support, pledging to use all traditional structures at his disposal to promote voter registration and participation.
The royal father said, “The palace remains committed to the advancement of democracy.
“We will continue to sensitize our people on the importance of being registered and participating actively in the electoral process. It is our collective responsibility to build a better future through the ballot.”
The advocacy visit to the Owa Obokun’s palace is part of INEC’s broader outreach to traditional rulers across Osun State, aimed at boosting public confidence in the electoral process and increasing voter enrollment at the grassroots level.
