by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
As Local Government elections’ date, slated for 19th October 2024, draws closer, peace-building stakeholders are calling for a peaceful electoral process in Kaduna State.
The Network of Peace Journalists (NPJ), in collaboration with the Conflict Mitigation and Management Regional Council (CMMRC) and Community Peace Observers (CPO), are appealing for peaceful elections across all 23 local governments.
In a press release issued in Kaduna, Ibrahima Yakubu, who is team leading/member of the NPJ, emphasized the importance of unity among all stakeholders to ensure a smooth electoral process.
He also urged politicians to collaborate with civil society organizations to promote peace and unity, and encouraged citizens to actively participate by voting for credible candidates.
Mr. Yakubu also called on the youth to reject violence, thuggery, and any misconduct during and after the elections, urging religious leaders to engage in ongoing prayers for peaceful elections and highlighted the need to protect journalists during this critical period.
Furthermore, he requested media organizations to equip journalists with necessary resources for effective reporting on election-related issues.
The group cautioned citizens against relying on unofficial election results circulating on social media and called on the INEC to ensure prompt delivery of voting materials to polling units.
Finally, they urged citizens to act patriotically by rejecting vote-buying and the involvement of underage individuals in campaigns and elections.