Education against political apathy.

# **“Anaghị Agwa Okenye Pụta na Anyanwụ”: What an Igbo Proverb Teaches Us About Voter Apathy in Nigeria** Among the many timeless treasures of Igbo wisdom is the proverb: **"Anaghị agwa okenye pụta na anyanwụ."** Literally translated, it means, **"You do not tell an elder to come out into the sun."** At first glance, the saying may appear simple, but its meaning runs much deeper. It reflects the belief that a mature and experienced person should already understand what is expected without constant reminders. Wisdom, responsibility, and awareness are assumed to accompany age and experience. Beyond age, however, this proverb speaks to every citizen who has reached the point of understanding civic duty. It challenges people to act responsibly without waiting to be persuaded or compelled. In today's Nigeria, the proverb offers a powerful lesson about one of the country's greatest democratic challenges: the growing refusal of many citizens to vote. Every election season, countless Nigerians express disappointment with poor governance, insecurity, unemployment, inflation, corruption, and failing public services. Social media platforms become filled with criticism, radio stations buzz with debates, and conversations in homes and marketplaces revolve around the nation's problems. Yet, when election day arrives, many eligible voters remain indoors. Some say their vote will not count. Others insist that elections are already decided before ballots are cast. Many simply believe that politics does not concern them. This contradiction raises an important question: if citizens understand the importance of good leadership, why abandon one of the strongest democratic tools available to them? The Igbo proverb reminds us that people who understand the consequences of their choices should not require repeated instruction before doing what is right. Just as an elder should not be reminded to seek shelter from the scorching sun, informed citizens should not need endless campaigns before recognizing the importance of participating in elections. Voting is not merely a constitutional right; it is a civic responsibility. Democracy survives only when citizens actively participate in choosing those who govern them. Refusing to vote does not remove one from the consequences of governance. Roads remain the same, schools continue to function—or fail to function—and economic policies affect everyone, whether they voted or not. Many Nigerians justify voter apathy by pointing to electoral malpractice, broken campaign promises, and a history of political disappointment. These concerns are genuine and deserve serious attention. Electoral institutions must continue to improve transparency, accountability, and public confidence. Political leaders must also earn the trust of citizens through integrity and performance. However, frustration alone should not become an excuse for silence. History has repeatedly shown that meaningful change is difficult when citizens withdraw from the democratic process. A low voter turnout often leaves decisions in the hands of a smaller group of people, reducing the collective influence of the wider population. The proverb also teaches another valuable lesson: responsibility cannot always be delegated. An elder who refuses to act wisely bears responsibility for the consequences. Likewise, citizens who consistently refuse to participate in elections surrender part of their influence over the future they hope to see. Nigeria's young population presents a unique opportunity. Millions of educated, energetic, and innovative young Nigerians possess the power to reshape the country's political landscape. Their voices matter, but those voices become most effective when transformed into lawful civic action, including voter registration, peaceful participation in elections, community engagement, and holding elected leaders accountable after elections. Democracy does not end after voting. It continues through active citizenship—asking questions, demanding transparency, participating in town hall meetings, supporting credible candidates, and insisting on accountability regardless of political affiliation. Yet voting remains the first and most essential step. The wisdom behind **"Anaghị agwa okenye pụta na anyanwụ"** therefore extends beyond personal conduct. It becomes a national call to responsibility. Nigerians should not need constant reminders that their future is closely tied to the choices they make at the ballot box. A nation cannot expect different outcomes while repeatedly abandoning one of the most effective instruments for peaceful change. If citizens desire better governance, stronger institutions, economic growth, and a more secure future, participation must replace indifference. The ballot is more than a piece of paper; it is a voice, a responsibility, and a statement that every citizen has a stake in the nation's future. The next time election day arrives, perhaps the ancient Igbo proverb should echo in every Nigerian's mind: **"Anaghị agwa okenye pụta na anyanwụ."** A people who understand the importance of democracy should not have to be told to protect it. They should already know that their participation today helps determine the Nigeria they will live in tomorrow.