Northern Elders Forum, NEF, has said that the North was committed to supporting a credible election under peaceful conditions and will support any candidate who emerges as a leader through it.
The Forum condemned the Leader of Pan-Yoruba Socio-Political Organization, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s outburst in a statement shared with Journalists yesterday.
Chief Adebanjo said; “Forget Nigeria if you don’t vote for Obi. I am not boasting and it is not a threat. When we say we must come together, is it by cheating one of us? Are that equity, justice, and peace?”
In a statement by its Director, Publicity and Advocacy of Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed said “We do not believe that Chief Adebanjo’s reckless outburst reflects the quality or essence of the Obi/Datti ticket”.
Ahmed also appeals to leaders, elders, politicians, and the authorities to resist inciting particularly young Nigerians who are more gullible and exposed to dangerous rhetoric.
“If there are Nigerians with any influence over Chief Adebanjo, they should advise him to show respect for his age and all the advantages he enjoys from being a Nigerian.
The Forum, however, advises people like Chief Adebanjo to attempt to behave more responsibly. These elections will not be won by threats and insults. Nigerians will not be scared from exercising their choices freely.
“The unity and survival of Nigeria are not dependent on politicians who think they can intimidate citizens, or instigate actions that will subvert a credible election and a peaceful transition to the next administration”.