Written by Gbenga Rotimi
Nigerian Afrobeat artist Sean Dampte, widely known as the “Afrobeat Fella,” has voiced deep concern over the alarmingly low voter turnout, particularly among young people, during the recent local government elections in Lagos State.
His remarks come in response to widespread reports of sparse participation at polling units across the state, a trend that many observers attribute to growing disillusionment and distrust in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Dampte, whose music often carries socially conscious themes, took to his platform to call for urgent reforms to restore public confidence in the democratic process.
He emphasized that transparent and credible elections are essential to rekindling civic engagement, particularly among Nigeria’s youth, who make up a significant portion of the population.
“The youth are the future, but how can they shape it if they don’t show up to vote?” he questioned, challenging young Nigerians to exercise their constitutional right to vote and actively participate in choosing their leaders.
In his impassioned plea, Dampte highlighted the paradox of disengagement: “How do the youth expect to take power from their so-called oppressors if they don’t show up to vote for their preferred candidates?” He stressed that voting is not just a right but a powerful tool for driving systemic change, especially for a generation that has consistently demanded reforms in governance, economic opportunities, and social justice.
By abstaining from the electoral process, Dampte warned, young Nigerians risk perpetuating the very systems they criticize.
The artist’s call to action resonates in the context of Nigeria’s political landscape, where voter apathy has become a recurring issue.
The low turnout in the Lagos LG elections mirrors a broader national trend, with many citizens expressing frustration over perceived electoral irregularities, lack of accountability, and the failure of elected officials to deliver on campaign promises.
Dampte urged the government and electoral institutions to prioritize transparency, accountability, and fairness to rebuild trust and encourage greater participation. “The government must show the people that their votes count,” he said, suggesting that tangible efforts to address electoral malpractices could reverse the growing apathy. In a separate but poignant reflection, Dampte commented on the recent passing of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, using the moment to underscore the fleeting nature of power and life. In a post shared via his Instagram Stories, the singer wrote, “Power and life are transient. What we do during our lifetime would be our greatest contribution to mankind.” His words serve as a reminder of the impermanence of authority and the enduring importance of legacy. By invoking Buhari’s death, Dampte encouraged introspection, urging both leaders and citizens to consider the lasting impact of their actions.
Dampte’s dual message—calling for youth engagement in elections and reflecting on the transient nature of life—ties into his broader advocacy for purposeful action. As an artist, he has often used his music and platform to address societal issues, from governance to youth empowerment. His latest statements align with this ethos, blending a call for political participation with a philosophical reflection on mortality and legacy.
For Nigeria’s youth, Dampte’s message is a clarion call to take ownership of their future by engaging in the democratic process. He emphasized that change begins at the grassroots level, and local government elections, often overlooked, are a critical starting point for shaping governance. “If you want reform, you have to show up,” he reiterated, encouraging young Nigerians to research candidates, register to vote, and mobilize others to do the same.
As Nigeria navigates its complex political and social challenges, voices like Sean Dampte’s serve as a bridge between entertainment and activism, inspiring a generation to move beyond apathy and embrace their role in shaping the nation’s future. His reflections on legacy further remind us that whether in the polling booth or in life, the choices we make today define the mark we leave on the world tomorrow.