By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Igbo Community Association in the Federal Capital Territory (ICA FCT) has urged eligible Igbo residents in Abuja to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing participation at the ballot box as critical to political inclusion.

According to the association, the 2006 National Population Census puts the Igbo population in the FCT at about 1.2 million, representing roughly 18 per cent of the territory’s total population — a demographic strength it says should translate into electoral influence.

INEC recently reopened its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise nationwide, prompting the ICA FCT to mobilise its members across the six area councils of the FCT to register and collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

In a statement issued recently, the President General of ICA FCT, Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, stressed the importance of civic participation, saying political change can only be achieved through the democratic process.

“In today’s democratic Nigeria, it’s the ballot, not the bullet, that matters. The demographic strength of the Igbo community in Abuja and across Nigeria is a powerful tool that must be used to elect leaders who will truly represent our interests,” he said.

Ellis-Ezenekwe added that the association is encouraging a shift from protest politics to active participation in elections.

“We must move away from the politics of protest and embrace the politics of participation,” he said.

The ICA FCT disclosed that it has set up a voter registration committee to coordinate efforts across Igbo units in the FCT, with registration targets assigned to each area council. Community units have also been directed to identify registration centres and mobilise eligible members.

“Our ogbunigwe (unity) today is our voting strength. The spirit of Igbo Kwenu lies in our ability to elect leaders on our own terms,” Ellis-Ezenekwe said.

The association also called on INEC to ensure that all registered voters are issued PVCs and that votes cast are protected and accurately counted.

“This is a constitutional right of every eligible voter who casts his or her vote,” he said.

While welcoming the resumption of voter registration, the ICA FCT warned that electoral irregularities experienced during the 2023 general elections must not be repeated in 2027.

“The people are more vigilant and ready today. We will not sit idly by while our votes are stolen or manipulated,” the statement read.

The association further urged INEC to make effective use of funds allocated for electoral activities, insisting that Nigerians expect improved efficiency and credibility in future elections.

The ICA FCT reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democratic participation and good governance, calling on all Igbo residents in Abuja to register and play an active role in shaping Nigeria’s political future.