The Jigawa chapter of the Jama’atu Nasrul Islam (JNI), has advised politicians to engage in peaceful and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2023 general elections.
The JNI gave the advice in a statement issued by its Secretary, Malam Muhammad Babangida on Wednesday in Dutse.
It urged politicians to desist form acts capable of jeopardising the relative peace being enjoyed in the state.
It also advised politicians and their supporters to go about their campaigns peacefully in spite of their political differences and to put public interest above their personal or party interests.
“We also call on youths to desist from thuggery and not to allow themselves to be used as tools for violence during campaigns.
“Our youths should also shun actions inimical to the conduct of peaceful elections.
“Nobody should deceive you into believing that you are irrelevant or you can be made rich through violence.
“As youths, you should be thinking about your future and reject those who hide their children but recruit the children of others to unleash violence on their behalf,’’ the JNI admonished.
It urged youths to turn out en-masse to vote candidates of their choice rather than participating in political violence.
“To us, campaigns should not be seen as do-or-die affair, but as an avenue to market party candidates for elections, therefore, youths should not to engage in any form of malpractice during the election.
“Youths should serve as agents of positive change for democracy to thrive in the state and in the country in general,’’ the JNI added.
It commended the recent peace accord signed by political parties candidates ahead of the 2023 general elections.