The National Association of Seadogs better known as Pyrates Confraternity (Jolly Rogers and Hudson Decks), on Friday, held a town hall meeting with traders and marketers at Bodija Market, in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.
The town hall meeting which was part of its “Our Votes Count” campaign, was aimed at sensitizing the marketers and traders on the opportunities that can be derived in voting without being induced.
While delivering his speech at the meeting, the Guest Speaker, Prof Francis Egbokhare stated that election is around the corner and it is time to make change happen by voting for the right person that would make the nation better.
He said: “We should not be compelled or deceived into selling our votes to the wrong candidate.
“Selling of votes during elections is a bane to free and fair elections in our country. This wrong practice hinders competent leaders from ruling and rather puts in office undeserving leaders without the interest of the citizens at heart.
“INEC is also set to ensure that our votes count, as there are already good development that will bring forth a free and fair election. So we must ensure that we vote and exercise our rights.”
Also addressing the marketers and members of the community, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC Chairman in Oyo State, Com. Kayode Martins stated that the town hall meeting is an eye opener which will help orientate and enlighten the members of the public on the importance of voting at the coming election.
He said: “We should all endeavour to participate in the exercise of voting on the day of election, letting go of our already held belief that our vote would not count.
“I plead with anyone with the intention of trading their votes to please have a rethink and a change of mind. In consideration of the future, we should make decisions, we should vote wisely.”
The Capoon, Jolly Rogers Deck, National Association Of Sea Dogs, Mr Olufemi Adesope also emphasized that the single message of the town hall is to ensure that members of the community should cease from vote selling and buying so that credible leaders can be elected at the upcoming election in Nigeria.
