Actions Speak Louder: How Performance Wins Votes In Politics

BY ISAAC ASABOR*

In the same way that Christendom teaches that the most powerful method of evangelism is not through mere words but by living a Christ-like life, politics also requires tangible actions to secure the trust and support of the electorate. In the political arena, good performance while in office can be the strongest form of campaigning. Voters are often more inclined to support candidates and political parties that have a track record of delivering results rather than relying solely on slogans or promises.

When a politician or political party performs well while in power, their deeds speak volumes to the public. Voters witness firsthand the impact of policies, reforms, and leadership. Infrastructure development, economic stability, and improved social services demonstrate competence and commitment to public welfare, resonating with the electorate far beyond the rhetoric of election season.

For instance, during the administration of Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, his focus on improving infrastructure, transportation, and security left a lasting impression on voters. His achievements became his campaign tool, influencing the success of his successor, Akinwunmi Ambode, who carried forward the legacy of development. Citizens tend to remember such tangible outcomes more than the promises made during campaign rallies. This is why the most successful political campaigns are built on concrete results rather than empty promises.

Fresh political aspirants face a more significant challenge. Without a proven track record, they must convince voters of their potential to perform. In such cases, aligning with a party known for delivering results can be a strategic advantage. Political parties with a history of good governance attract candidates and voters alike, as they provide credibility and trust.

Take, for example, the case of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria. While some regions have seen positive outcomes under APC-led governments, fresh candidates running under this platform have benefited from the party’s past successes. By aligning with a performing party in such a region where APC is deemed to be doing well, these candidates gain immediate political capital, leveraging the party’s reputation to build voter confidence in their candidacy.

Conversely, when politicians in power fail to deliver, they not only sabotage their chances but also damage the party’s reputation, affecting future candidates. The disappointment of unmet promises lingers long after the tenure of non-performing leaders. This creates a trust deficit between politicians and voters, making it harder for even new and competent candidates to garner support under the same party.

In Nigeria, this is evident as voters grow weary of parties that make grand promises but fail to deliver, particularly in sectors like employment, healthcare, and security. The disconnect between campaign promises and reality has led to increasing voter apathy and scepticism. Politicians who do not perform while in power often have to rely on desperate measures like vote-buying or manipulative campaign tactics, which may yield short-term success but can never build sustainable political loyalty.

Governance is the most extended and most visible campaign period. Every decision, policy, and action taken during a political leader’s tenure count toward the next election. For incumbents, the real campaign begins the moment they take office. Their performance or lack thereof, shapes the narrative, either building a legacy that voters can support or creating dissatisfaction that opposition parties can exploit.

Fresh candidates must also keep this in mind. Instead of relying solely on traditional campaign methods, they should actively demonstrate their readiness to deliver by engaging with issues and proposing actionable solutions long before election season. Voters are becoming increasingly sophisticated and are more likely to reward politicians who take their concerns seriously and act on them.

For new political aspirants, the choice of party affiliation is crucial. A candidate’s ambition may be noteworthy, but it must be backed by a party that voters already trust. Aligning with a party that has a proven track record of performance can give candidates the edge they need, especially in highly competitive races. However, fresh aspirants must also be mindful that their actions and ideas contribute to the party’s reputation and overall image.

In the end, the most effective campaign strategy is good governance. Actions speak louder than words, and in politics, performance is the clearest and most impactful message to the electorate. Politicians who govern well need not rely on expensive ad campaigns or grandiose promises, their work will speak for itself. For new candidates, aligning with a performing party and demonstrating genuine capability and readiness to serve are the surest paths to electoral success. As voters, the most important question to ask is not what a candidate promises but what they have delivered or are capable of delivering. Ultimately, the best political campaigns are not those fought during election season but those won through consistent performance while in office.