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Group Warns Nigerians On Political Violence

By Gbenga Akinfenwa
05 April 2015   |   1:56 pm
AS the process of electing political office holders across the country commenced, Nigerians have been urged to shun all acts capable of causing political violence that may truncate the peaceful political atmosphere in the country. The call was made by Partnership For A New Nigeria (PFANN), a socio-advocacy group, whose aim is to engender ethical…

AS the process of electing political office holders across the country commenced, Nigerians have been urged to shun all acts capable of causing political violence that may truncate the peaceful political atmosphere in the country.

The call was made by Partnership For A New Nigeria (PFANN), a socio-advocacy group, whose aim is to engender ethical revolution in the polity, at a symposium in Lagos, with focus on the state of the nation, division in the church and the way forward for Nigeria.

The convener Evang. Elishama Ideh, disclosed that its core aim is to make people look forward for a new Nigeria, to encourage the spirit of change, and to choose leaders that will make things work in the country. She said certain aspects of campaigns of political parties are already creating tension and threatening the collective destiny of Nigerians as a people.

She noted that the 2015 election campaigns have been vibrant, vigorous and vociferous, which are evidence of a growing democracy, where freedom of speech and information has enabled Nigerians to put out their ideas and have given the electorate access to information to make informed choice.

“The real prize in the ongoing elections is not victory for any party or candidate, but a victory that is followed by reinvigorated, respectful political debate, no matter who wins. The peace and stability of our nation is more precious than who triumphs at a ballot box.

“In a vibrant democracy, a politician always has a second chance. If our elections descend into violence this time, who can honestly be sure that our nation will get a second chance,” she asked.

Ideh appealed to all Nigerians to do everything possible to remain united with the understanding that every Nigerian is important, saying they should vote for a Nigeria with one voice; a place where all tribes will be heard and have the opportunity to express themselves without oppression.

Said she, “Please do not sell your voice nor freedom, which is very precious because we need a new Nigeria, without corrupt leaders, where leaders have compassion on their people, with leaders that are honest, where no one is above the law, where currency has value and where social amenities are a right, not privilege.”

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