WIC to Nigerians: Register now for 2027 elections or lose your voice

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By Steve Oko

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UMUAHIA — With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the World Igbo Congress (WIC) has issued a strong appeal to Nigerians to immediately register and prepare to participate in the polls, warning that civic engagement, not complaints, will shape the nation’s future.

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In a statement titled “Make Your Voice Heard, Register to Vote,” and signed by its Chairman, Dr Festus Okere, and Secretary General, Sir Chris Ogara, the Diaspora-based apex Igbo organization urged eligible voters to see registration as both a right and a responsibility.

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According to the group, active participation in elections remains the most effective way to influence governance, policies, and leadership choices that impact political, economic, and social wellbeing.

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“If you have not yet registered to vote, please do so as soon as possible to avoid missing the stated deadlines,” the Chairman stated.

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WIC emphasized that democracy thrives when citizens take ownership of the process, adding that voting is a direct tool for promoting accountability, fairness, and representation.

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The organization warned against apathy, stressing that those who fail to register automatically surrender their influence in determining who governs them.

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“Do not disenfranchise yourself by not registering and voting for those who can genuinely act and promote your interests,” the statement read.

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Highlighting the importance of civic participation, WIC noted that voting enables citizens to choose representatives who reflect their values, protect civil rights, shape long-term national priorities, and strengthen democratic institutions.

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The group further argued that broader voter participation helps reduce the dominance of narrow interests while promoting stability and inclusiveness in governance.

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It maintained that registration is a simple yet powerful step toward influencing public policy, adding that citizens who participate meaningfully in elections are better positioned to demand accountability.

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“Voting gives you real influence for relatively little effort,” the group said, urging Nigerians to “relaunch themselves into relevance” by taking proactive steps ahead of the 2027 polls.

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“Do not complain. Vote”, WIC said, insisting that actions and not words will determine Nigeria’s democratic direction in the coming years.

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