The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari has appealed to residents of the state to remain calm and resolute of the fact that hard times only last for a short period of time even as he urged them to allow peace to reign before, during and after the general elections.
He urged parents to preach to their children and wards to be law abiding to the constituted authorities and not involve in any act capable of causing crises especially during this election period.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Malam Abdulazeez Arowona, the monarch expressed concerns over the numerous socio-economic hardships orchestrated by the inadequate circulation of the newly redesigned naira notes, fuel scarcity as well as the forthcoming general elections.
He stressed that for the nation to enjoy democratic advancement in the face of several challenges, there is need for tolerance, perseverance and adequate support from members of the public irrespective of their social status and religious belief by standing on the path of peace and harmony in order to avoid disarray of government programmes and actions.
The Emir said as traditional rulers, himself and his colleagues are deeply touched and aware of the various challenges faced by the general public especially people at the grassroots level.
He appealed to the people of Ilorin Emirate and Kwara state at large to remain calm and patient while government is makes frantic efforts towards addressing the situation.
“Naira notes remain the only legal tender which allow for easy transaction of business activities while large volume of fuel is being consumed on daily basis for both domestic and industrial purposes, therefore the scarcity of both has no doubt caused unbearable hardship on the people” the emir lamented.
The monarch explained that it is only in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility that democracy can grow and therefore urged all political party stalwarts to endeavor to play the game of electioneering processes by embracing peaceful coexistence among themselves irrespective of their party lines.
He also enjoined voters to exercise their franchise in a peaceful manner and vote for candidates of their choice without fear and reiterated that Ilorin Emirate is peaceful, Kwara State is peaceful and they don’t want any unfortunate incidence that will tarnish their longstanding reputation as the most peaceful state in Nigeria.
The Emir appealed to politicians and their supporters not to overheat the polity in their quests to canvass for votes from the electorates adding that no society can grow amidst rancor and disorderliness.
Alhaji Sulu-Gambari also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) to remain neutral and unbiased by ensuring that the forthcoming general elections is conducted in a free, fair and credible atmosphere by giving all political parties equal rights and opportunities during the contest.
