The streets around the National Assembly did not roar. They spoke.
Men and women gathered without stones, without threats, without violence. They came with something more powerful — a demand that the vote of the Nigerian people must finally mean what it says.
From every corner stood citizens who believe leadership is not a costume you wear, but a responsibility you earn.
Their message was simple.
If you want to be called Honourable, be honourable in how you emerge.
If you want to be Distinguished, let the process distinguish you.
If you desire to be Excellency, then pass through excellence, not shortcuts.
Records must be verifiable. Qualifications must be clear. Due process must not be optional.
And then came the heart of it — protect the people’s mandate.
Transmit results electronically. Let figures travel in real time. Let Nigerians see what they voted for, as they voted for it. End the darkness where manipulation breeds.
We run digital banks across villages and cities every day. Money moves. Taxes are collected. Systems work.
Why then should democracy suddenly develop network problems on election day?
This is not too much to ask. It is the minimum requirement of trust.
Across the nation, young people stood tall. Not angry. Determined. They are no longer spectators of history; they are demanding to become its authors.
And here in Anambra South, we in the African Democratic Congress hear them clearly.
Their call is our assignment.
A credible alternative is not built by shouting the loudest. It is built by standing where justice stands, by defending transparent systems, and by insisting that power must always return to the people.
2027 is approaching.
The question before every community, every ward, every family is no longer complicated:
Do we want elections that produce leaders… or leaders that produce excuses?
History is moving.
And those who stand for integrity today will be remembered tomorrow.
Linus Anagboso (#BIGPEN)
Publicity Secretary, Anambra South
