Peace committee urges Nigerians to show patriotism

Ahead of the rescheduled Presidential and National Assembly elections, the National Peace Committee (NPC) has charged Nigerians to respond to calls of patriotism by coming out en masse to vote for candidates of their choice on Saturday.

The committee also urged politicians to stop trading blames or making inciting statements that could heat up the polity and should show their readiness by collaborating with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to inspire Nigerians to new heights.

In a statement issued in Abuja, its Chairman, General Abdusalami Abubakar (rtd.) and Convener, Bishop Matthew Kukah, said the real challenge now is for Nigerians to have faith in God and the country.

They stressed that citizens should put everything aside and see the general election as a battle that must be won.The committee also charged INEC to focus on how best to boost its credibility and integrity, as well as continue to focus on attaining internal cohesion and coordination.

“We understand your right to feel betrayed and humiliated by INEC. However, we appeal to you all to see this as a watershed in the life of our fledging Democracy. “The only way we can ensure a steady Democracy is for us to learn the lessons from these sad developments.

Therefore, we appeal to you not to count the cost of the set back, but respond to the call to patriotism. “Do not relent, go out and fulfill your duty to your family and country on elections day.

“Be temperate in your language so that we do not inadvertently set our people up for violence. Sadly, for us, politics of the last few years have further polarised our people along dangerous religious, regional, ethnic and party lines. We must aim at trying to avert this precipice and try to heal our nation,” they stated.

They also enjoined Nigerians to avoid panic measures and continue to communicate effectively with other compatriots to build up their confidence. “Listen to the politicians but do not be distracted. Perhaps, your being accused by both sides might be your vindication. You might still be vindicated in the end. Focus on the big picture,” they admonished.