2023 elections: Religious leaders urge Nigerians to refrain from violence
Posted by Ahmed Iyanda | 2 years ago | 863 times
Nigerian religious leaders have called on their followers to refrain from participating in any form of electoral violence ahead of the country's upcoming general elections.
At an Inter-Faith forum organized by Vote Not Fight Ogun in Abeokuta on Friday, religious leaders from different faiths including Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions, called on all Nigerians to maintain peace during the electoral process and to respect the rights and opinions of others.
This comes amid concerns that the elections, scheduled to take place on February 25 and March 11 2023 for the Presidential and National Assembly, and Governship and State House of Assembly, respectively, could be marred by violence. In past elections, there have been reports of clashes between supporters of different political parties, as well as instances of voter intimidation and fraud.
Pastor Barars M.A, the representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Ogun State emphasized the importance of free and fair elections, stating that they are essential for the preservation of democracy and the protection of human rights.
He also urged political leaders to refrain from using inflammatory language and to encourage their supporters to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner.
The representative of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria(PFN), Pastor John Akinbode called on the government and security forces to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of voters and to prevent any form of electoral violence.
He said, "we urge all Nigerians to come together, put aside our differences, and work towards a peaceful and democratic electoral process. We must remember that we are all brothers and sisters, and that our actions should reflect the values of tolerance and respect that are at the core of our various faiths."
Also, the Women Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), represented by Pastor Mrs Ruth Ayeni urged youths and women to prepare to vote during the 2023 general election to reduce voter apathy in the state and Nigeria.
"The youth and women of Nigeria have the power to shape the future of our nation by choosing leaders who are transparent, accountable, and committed to improving the lives of all citizens," Ruth stated.
She noted that mass participation, absence of violence and non-marginalisation of people regardless of their political affiliation, religion and social status are key indicators of a free, credible and fair election.
Ifa Religious representative, Ifa Sunday Lugboso, promises that they will continue advocating for peaceful elections and instruct their followers to vote in the upcoming election.
Earlier, the Ogun VNF representative, Adebiyi Sodiq, urged religious leaders in the state to use their platforms to discourage participation in electoral violence amongst youths.
Sodiq said, "Religious leaders hold significant sway in all societies, especially in Nigeria, making the Inter-Faith forum crucial."
