Our country has been unsafe for people to live in for a long time, but we’ve managed to survive it so far.
Some voters made mistakes during previous elections, but there is still time to right all wrongs.
As the Nigerian general elections approach on Saturday, February 25, 2023, we Nigerians must be security conscious and take precautions to ensure our safety during this period. This is important not only for individual safety but also for the peaceful and successful conduct of the elections.
It is not advisable to become deeply involved in whatever is going on during this election period, no matter how appealing it may sound.
Election periods in Nigeria are pretty unpredictable, with previous incidents of violence and unrest. As a result, we must take the necessary precautions to avoid being involved in any untoward incidents.
Here are ten tips we should embrace and follow to help us stay safe and secure during the election period:
Keep yourself up-to-date: Keep up-to-date on what’s going on in your community and country. Maintain an eye out for credible news sources and official government announcements. This will allow you to stay current on security threats and avoid potential danger.
Make a careful itinerary: If you must travel during the election period, plan your route carefully and avoid high-risk areas. Try to travel during the day and avoid travelling alone. Plan your movements carefully, especially if you need to go to a polling station or other election-related events. Determine the routes you will take and the times you will travel. This will assist you in avoiding potential trouble spots and staying safe.
Avoid crowds: During election times, there are often large crowds in and around voting stations. Avoid becoming engrossed in these crowds, which can quickly become disorderly or even unsafe.
Be observant: Be conscious of your environment and the people around you at all times. Keep an eye out for any unusual activity or people, and report any concerns to the proper authorities.
Stick to the rules: Respect all rules and regulations established by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant authorities. This includes avoiding polling places if you are ineligible to vote or immediately after voting.
Keep a cool head and behave civilly with strangers: In the event of any security concerns or instabilities, it is critical to remain calm and follow the authorities’ instructions. Panic and chaos can worsen the situation, so it is extremely crucial to remain calm and rational.
Keep your valuables safe: Always keep your personal belongings and valuables safe. Avoid carrying huge amounts of cash or other items of value in public.
Keep in touch with loved ones: Keep your family and friends up to date on your whereabouts at all times. This will let them know you are safe and allow them to notify the authorities if anything goes wrong.
Nigerians can help ensure a safe and successful election period by following these simple tips. Remember, it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians. Let us all work together to make the upcoming elections as peaceful and successful as possible.
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE…DEEP REFLECTIONS