AGF Urges Elites to Vote, Strengthen Democracy

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has challenged the elite to participate actively in growing democracy in the country, stating that standing aloof and not voting during elections does not help the democratic process.

Fagbemi made this statement while delivering a lecture for the 39th Convocation of the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, on Friday. He emphasized the need to reform the nation’s education system to nurture democracy.

According to Fagbemi, the elite, including university lecturers, are culpable for not voting for candidates or parties of their choice during elections. He noted that they are often the most vocal in criticizing government policies and programs after the government has come to power.

Fagbemi said, “It is the civic responsibility of the people to participate in the democratic process by voting during elections, and I charge the elite to examine themselves because you have no right to complain about government policies if you don’t vote during elections.”

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria stressed that Nigeria’s educational system must be overhauled to instill democratic values of tolerance, respect for others, and the rule of law. He emphasized that education reform should focus on transforming the way Nigerians think through education.

Fagbemi stated, “Success should be measured by our broad-mindedness and openness to all aspects of life—nature, society, history, truth, and, most importantly, to our fellow humans who work with us towards a common goal.”

He added that the integration of democratic values into the educational system would enhance academic excellence and development, build transparent and accountable leaders, consolidate national unity, and make Nigeria more equitable, just, and progressive.

In his charge to the graduating students, Fagbemi advised them to impact positively on society. “I implore you to use your knowledge and skills for the good of society, take initiative, think creatively, advance the social good, and eschew evil and all appearances of evil. You must be champions of democracy and advocates of a strong, peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria.”

The UNILORIN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole (SAN), also emphasized the pivotal role of education in a democratic setting. “No education, no nation. Citizens should be educated to be able to ask the right questions of their leaders. It promotes values of integrity and accountability, among others.”