The Electoral umpire in Nigeria, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has described Peace Ambassadors appointed by the commission as critical elements in the conduct of peaceful and credible elections in the nation.
Kano State Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Professor Shehu Arabu Risqua made the statement while conferring the title on the Oba of Yoruba, a traditional leader in Kano State north Western Nigeria..
The REC said their roles are very important in the conduct of a peaceful and credible election, as they enlighten the public on INEC’s procedures and processes.
” These people even intervene using their intellect, energy to mobilise the electorate to vote wisely according to the laid down rules and regulations of the Commission.
“We need people who will enhance peace before, during and after the election, hence the appointment of the Oba of Yoruba in Kano as a Peace Ambassador.
” it is in line with the policy of INEC to recognise outstanding people who sacrifice, educate and crown those who contribute to peace to reign in the society,” he explained.
According to him, INEC has passed through various forms of crisis during elections, many of which are avoidable.
“You cannot have an election in an atmosphere that is not peaceful and you must have in any society people who preach peace and interject at any interval of breach of peace,” he added.
He said Kano, the most populous state and second biggest commercial city in Nigeria, has remained the most peaceful state among the seven states in the north West region of the country, as such everything must be done to sustain it , as whatever happens in the state affects the whole region.
Peaceful Election
The Oba Yoruba Kano, Alhaji Murtala Alimi Otisese Commended the INEC for the honour, stressing that the Peace Ambassador title will enhance his capacity and competence to mobilize more people towards a peaceful general election in 2023 in Kano state and indeed the entire nation.
“Peace is our advocate because life will be sweet in an atmosphere of peace and whatever you do will be successful, especially in an election,” said the Oba of Kano.
He urged citizens to endeavour to collect their permanent Voter’s Card, PVC, after the just concluded registration excercise, refuse overtures to sell them and use them to vote in credible leaders that can engender development for the benefit the society, especially at the grassroots.
“Do not sell your PVCs, it is not for sale. It is your right and instrument to vote whoever you want to rule the country, especially credible leaders in the 2023 elections that will bring development to the people,” he appealed
He commended the Kano state Governor Dr. Umar Ganduje and the Emir of Kano Aminu Ado Bayero for creating enabling environment for peaceful coexistence in the state.
Media Support
The REC, Professor Risqua who earlier announced that he will be exiting the commission in few days time upon expiration of his tenure, commended the media for the support giving to him and equally called for such to be extended to the in coming REC.
He urged media practitioners to always endeavour to tell the truth, ignore lies and eschew fake news for peace to reign in the society
Professor Risqua during the event also presented an award of recognition to the Oba of Yoruba on peace building in Kano state.
N.O
