The wife of presidential candidate of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, Hajiya Aminat Titi Atiku Abubakar, on Wednesday urged women not to allow vote buying ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the inauguration of ADC National Women’s League and the unveiling of ADC Women 1-10 Votes initiative in Abuja, Mrs Atiku said cost of living crisis has forced many children out of school, and women as mothers cannot remain silent.
‘Today, many of our children are out of school because cost of living has become extremely difficult for families. As women and mothers, we cannot continue to remain silent,’ she said.
She appealed to women not to allow anyone to buy their votes.
‘Women, I appeal to you: do not allow anyone to buy your vote,’ she said.
Mrs Atiku urged women to sensitise people, especially in rural communities, on power of their votes, warning against politicians who take advantage of hunger to offer money or food items during elections.
‘During elections, some people go into villages, take advantage of hunger and hardship, and offer people money, food, or other items in exchange for their votes. They may give you N1,000, N2,000, a bag of rice, or even N50,000. But ask yourself: how long will that money or food last? What happens after the election?’ she said.
She noted that there have been situations where people collected money but still voted according to their conscience, describing it as power of free and independent vote.
She called on women to stand up for their rights, their children and generation yet unborn.
‘If we fail to act today, generations coming after us may hold us responsible for decisions we make now. We must leave behind a country where our children can have better opportunities and a better future,’ she said.
Mrs Atiku said women have always demonstrated strength, courage and determination, and can make tremendous difference when they decide to act.
‘Women have always demonstrated strength, courage, and determination. When women decide to do something, they can make a tremendous difference. That is why I believe in our women. Women, this is our turn. This is our right,’ she said.
She urged women to encourage other women, children, friends and eligible voters to go to polling units and exercise civic rights peacefully and responsibly.
‘Nobody should deceive you. Enough of the deception,’ she said.
She quoted Yoruba proverb: ‘Obìnrín kì í j? akara kí ó fi ?w?´ kan un,’ explaining that lesson is that temporary benefits should not distract from bigger picture.
‘Bread today cannot solve problems of tomorrow. So, question we must continue to ask is: when will things truly get better?’ she said.
‘Women, arise and shine. This is an opportunity for us to make our voices heard and participate fully in democratic process. Let us use our votes wisely, peacefully, and according to our conscience. This is our civic right. This is our responsibility. This is our opportunity,’ she added.