The Order of Knights of Saint Mulumba Nigeria (KSM) has called on all eligible Knights and Ladies across the country to register to vote and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) as part of their civic responsibility in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
In a Democracy Day message marking 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria, the Supreme Knight of the Order, Sir Steve Adehi (SAN), urged members to participate in the electoral process actively, stressing that voter registration remains the most fundamental duty of citizenship in a democratic society.
“The Permanent Voter’s Card is the ordinary instrument by which the citizen translates conviction into consequence, and no Knight or Lady who is eligible should remain without one,” Adehi said.
He directed Sub-Council Grand Knights (GKs) to ensure that members within their jurisdictions are properly registered, have updated voter information, and know their polling units ahead of future elections.
According to him, civic engagement goes beyond voter registration. It should include voter education, peaceful conduct during elections, and the rejection of all inducements that could compromise the sanctity of the ballot.
The Supreme Knight described Nigeria’s attainment of 27 uninterrupted years of democratic rule as a significant national achievement, noting that the country’s constitutional order had endured despite its size, diversity, and numerous challenges.
“Democracy is an imperfect instrument,” he said. “Yet among the forms of representative government known to political experience, none has been shown to protect better the dignity of the human person, the freedom of conscience, and the accountability of those who govern,” he said.
While reaffirming the Order’s non-partisan status, Adehi encouraged members who feel called to public service to seek elective office, describing public office as a legitimate avenue for Christian vocation when pursued honourably and exercised in trust for the people.
He also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct future elections with transparency, competence, and impartiality, stressing that free, fair, and credible elections are the foundation of democratic governance.
The KSM leader further expressed concern over the increasing bitterness in Nigerian politics, calling on political actors to embrace civility, tolerance, and respect for opponents.
“It has become a troubling feature of our public life that the contest for office is increasingly conducted in the language of warfare,” he said, advocating a return to “politics without bitterness” where electoral contests are conducted vigorously but peacefully.
Adehi pledged the continued support of the Knights and Ladies of Saint Mulumba for efforts to consolidate democratic gains, promote good governance, and advance the common good. He prayed for peace, justice, and freedom in Nigeria, urging citizens to remain committed to democratic values and national development.