In the lead-up to Ondo State’s gubernatorial election on November 16, the Ondo State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) took to the streets of Ayede Ogbese to raise voter awareness, particularly among women.
The rally, held on Tuesday, focused on educating women on their voting rights and the critical need to avoid vote-buying.
The Chairperson of Ondo State NAWOJ, Comrade Tola Gbadamosi, addressed the gathering at the Ogbese market, emphasising the importance of voting independently.
“We are here in Ayede Ogbese to sensitize our women on voters’ registration and education,” Gbadamosi said.
“We want to ensure that on Nov. 16, they cast their votes freely and reject the influence of money in the electoral process.
We have sent out hand bills and Voter’s educational book to enhance their knowledge.”
Gbadamosi expressed her appreciation to HRH Princess (Dr.) Olufunto Oluyede, Regent of Ayede Ogbese, for her support of the campaign, as well as to the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Ondo State chapter and Mrs. Lola Adekanye of the Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), who contributed educational materials.
NAWOJ National Vice President for the B-Zone (Southwest), Mrs. Adeola Adekunle, urged women not to lose faith in the democratic process, despite the current economic climate.
“When we go to the field, we see women weary and tired of voting because they feel disillusioned by their suffering,” she said.
“But we are here to remind them that voting is their right, and that accepting money for votes is selling out the next four years of their lives.”
The Women Leader of Ayede Ogbese, Mrs. Mercy Ogunmola, praised the sensitisation programme and encouraged women to participate actively on election day.
Prince Olakunle Oluyede, representing the Lisa of Ayede Ogbese, echoed the call to resist vote-buying.
Mrs. Olubukola Aduwo of NTA, who joined the rally, highlighted the responsibility of journalists in promoting voter education.
“This initiative is not politically sponsored,” Aduwo stated. “As journalists, it’s our duty to inform the public on these issues.”
Mrs. Sunmola Olowookere, Features Editor at The Hope newspaper, urged citizens to end political apathy. “If we continue to complain but refuse to act, nothing will change,” she said.
“Voting is the only avenue for change in government. Let us all come out and vote.”
The rally forms part of NAWOJ’s broader efforts to encourage informed and independent voting across Ondo State as election day approaches.
