NSCIA, others advocate peace in elections

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has hailed Jonathan, Buhari and the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Attahiru Jega, for the peaceful conduct of Saturday’s Presidential election. 

A statement by the President, Ekiti chapter, Alh. Yakubu Sanni, commended Jonathan for his rare display of “courage and statesmanship” by conceding victory to Buhari even before the declaration of the final result.

“This singular act, apart from being in line with the best democratic practices internationally, has further elevated his status as a statesman and a true democrat.”

The Islamic body, however, urged the INEC to rectify all the teething problems confronting the use of card readers before the forthcoming April 11 Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections.

The NSCIA commended Nigerians for the maturity, candour and peaceful disposition displayed by the electorate.

It also urged Buhari to be magnanimous in victory and strive to ensure the realisation of his campaign promises and manifesto.

Also, the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye, has appealed to the Ekiti people to be peaceful and orderly during the April 11 Governorship and House of Assembly elections in the state.

 

Speaking during Chrism mass at St. Patrick Cathedral in Ado Ekiti, the bishop decried wanton destruction of property and attack on innocent people during jubilation of Buhari’s victory.

He said, “The coming election should be peaceful. I appeal to you to be peaceful and cast your votes according to your conscience.”

The Ekiti State Labour Party  Elders’ Forum has also congratulated Buhari on his victory, saying his emergence was akin to a bloodless revolution predicted by the late sage, Chief Obafemi  Awolowo.

In a statement by the Chairman of the Forum, Prof. Joseph Oluwasanmi, in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, the elders urged Buhari to pilot what they described the ‘New Dawn,’ which his victory symbolised, with civility and the fear of God.

“The result confirmed the resolve of all Nigerians to continue to live together despite their religious and tribal differences. The electorate in Nigeria showed they have come of age,” it added.