ACF expresses displeasure over inciting remarks by politicians

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Worried by the recent development over activities of party supporters in Kaduna State especially, inciting remarks by politicians and the destruction of opponent‘s posters and vehicles, Kaduna State Chapter of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has said the development is unwelcome and dangerous to the forthcoming elections, therefore urged all political parties in Kaduna State to sign a peace accord to ensure peaceful conduct of elections.

The forum stated this in a communiqué signed by Engineer Musa Idris on the behalf of other members of the committee, at the end of a one day stakeholders meeting on peace and non-violent elections in 2015 organized by the state chapter.

The communiqué called on relevant stakeholders to adhere strictly to the political party’s Code of Conduct 2013, while urging all security agencies tolive above board in the conduct of the 2015 elections.

“Candidates of political parties should refrain from abusive language or any action that could cause disaffection on the opponents during electioneering campaigns.

“It was unanimously adopted that the basis for peace during elections is to conduct free, fair and credible elections as we all have responsibility as stakeholders to ensure that the 2015 general elections is peaceful, free and fair,” the communique said.

It further called on INEC to ensure that votes are counted and announced on the spot for a free and fair elections and that the youth should not allow themselves to be used by selfish politicians in thuggery and political violence.

The communiqué also called on traditional institutions, religious leaders, nongovernmental organizations and other stakeholders to preach peace, tolerance and voter education to the public for peaceful 2015 elections.

The communiqué committee which also emphasized that 2015 is an election year where the public are expected to vote for candidates of political parties of their choice also recalled that Kaduna State was the worst hit in terms of loss of lives and properties during the 2011 general elections.

The communiqué therefore called on security agencies to be alert to apprehend suspects and sponsors of political violence and should be prosecuted accordingly.