Patriotism fundamental for peaceful elections – Group

Patriotism and integrity have been identified as essential attitudes for peaceful elections in Nigeria.

Ms May Ikokwu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Save Our Heritage Initiative (SOHI), anNGO, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

Ikokwu who condemned the cases of violence and hate displayed by some politicians in the just- concluded elections, said such acts of animosity were alien to Nigerians.

She identified neighbourly love as part of Africa’s culture, saying it was foundational to building patriotism in politicians.

“Patriotism is a character trait that the ideal person would possess.

“Our culture teaches us to embrace good character and most importantly love for one another,” she said.

The culture advocate advised Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used against one another by politicians.

She explained that hatred and ethnic divisions were negations of Africa’s culture.

She also deplored the use of hate speech in social media, saying they do not foster unity in the country.

According to her, no well bred man or woman will like to plant seeds of hatred and discord among the same people he or she wants to rule.

Ikokwu, however, called for reorientation of politicians to begin to be patriotic for a united and progressive Nigeria.

She said that leadership must be built on love for one’s nation not on selfish aggrandisement.

The Culture Advocate called on new generation politicians not to toe the path of some older politicians whose actions threaten democracy and good governance.