Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Tuesday, described the ongoing electronic membership registration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a civic responsibility that would strengthen the party’s internal democracy.
The governor said this while observing the exercise at his polling unit at St Stephen Adeniji Adele Primary School in Lagos Island.
Sanwo-Olu said that the exercise, which began on Monday, was designed to validate genuine party members through a digital process anchored on the National Identification Number (NIN).
“This is indeed a party civic responsibility; We started this exercise yesterday for all party members to commence an e-registration in all the wards in Lagos State and, indeed, across the federation,” he said.
He explained that Lagos has 245 wards, each equipped with two registration tablets, printers, internet connectivity and alternative power supply to ensure a seamless process.
“In Lagos, all the wards are fully equipped; Once you come, the first thing requested is your NIN number, just to ensure that there is backend data verification.
” You will also be asked if you have a voter’s card or not,” he said.
The governor said that, successful registrants are issued a printed temporary membership slip upon completion of the process.
“The whole essence is to encourage all our members, particularly in Lagos State, to come out and register digitally.
” That is the minimum requirement to be a real, card-carrying member of our party,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor noted that the party’s last comprehensive membership registration exercise was conducted in 2021, adding that the current exercise was necessary to update records, accommodate new members and adopt modern digital standards.
“I believe this exercise will run throughout the month of January.
” Let everybody come out and register. It will validate and confirm your status as a bona fide member of the APC,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged minor technical glitches recorded on the first day but said that they had been resolved.
“They had a few glitches yesterday, but today the process has fully stabilised. As you can see, party faithful are registering smoothly and the exercise is ongoing,” he said.
He consequently, urged both old and new members, especially youths, to take advantage of the exercise.
“This is an opportunity for existing and new members, particularly younger people, to identify with the party.
” Nobody is asking you for money. Just come, register and collect your slip,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu stressed that physical presence was required to ensure authenticity.
“Because we want to see you, it cannot be done remotely.
” But it only takes five to ten minutes. Once your details are confirmed, your photograph is taken and your temporary slip is printed,” he said..
According to him, this is the minimum required from those who wish to be members, adding that it was time for such persons to show sincerity and commitment to the APC. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)