Lokoja – Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), a non governmental organisation has called on Muslims in Kogi State to come out en masse and vote for candidates of their choice in the February 25 and March 11 elections.
Mallam Zaak Abubakr Aliyu, the state Chairman of MURIC made the call in Lokoja on Sunday during a press conference.
He said coming out en masse to vote in the elections was the only way through which people of proven integrity can emerge as the country’s leaders.
The Chairman charged Nigerians to eschew violence before, during and after the elections, saying that “Allah hates violence and other related vices in our attempts to elect our leaders.
“We must therefore distance ourselves from being employed as thugs and agents of election violence to align with what pleases our Creator.
” It is more honourable to go out to our polling units on Election Day, cast our votes peacefully and allow democracy take the center stage.
“Again, as Muslims, we are very much aware that Allah enthrones leaders, hence the need to avoid ‘it must be me’ or ‘it must be my candidate’ syndrome.
“We must be patient and allow Allah’s will prevail in all that we do, including the electoral process.”
He also used the occasion to call on the Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC) to ensure a transparent and smooth process of electioneering.
“This is expedient to make the outcome acceptable to all stakeholders.
“INEC must endeavor to be an impartial umpire In line with its core mandates and the laws establishing it.
“Furthermore, officials engaged by INEC in adhoc capacity should have the fear of God and do the right thing to avoid creating an atmosphere of chaos, mayhem and anarchy.
“Security agents are advised to be on top of their game and watch out for mischief makers, vote buyers and perpetrators of allied electoral offences to ensure a hitch free process,” Aliyu said.
It also called on President Muhammadu Buhari to direct the Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele to ensure the circulation of more of the newly redesigned Naira notes to ease the Current hardship being experienced by Nigerians across board.
“Honestly, Nigerians are currently going through difficult times arising from paucity of Cash.
“Added to the issue of unavailability of cash is Scarcity and high cost of Petroleum Products.
“Efforts should be geared towards providing Succor to the Populace in this area as scarcity of Petrol will Substantially affect the conduct of the 2023 elections in the country,” he said.
Zak called for the support of all for MURIC in Kogi State so that it can effectively discharge its mandate if defending the rights of Muslims.
MURIC is a non governmental and non-profit making organisation envisioned to protect the rights and privileges of Muslims in Nigeria and those even in the diaspora. (vitalnewsngr.com)
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