Abuja, 05 November, 2023 / 9:55 pm (ACI Africa).
Members of the National Peace Committee (NPC) in Nigeria, among them some Catholic Bishops, are calling for “free and fair processes” ahead of Gubernatorial polls in three of the country’s States.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria declared Saturday, November 11 the scheduled date for the redo of gubernatorial elections in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo States. This decision follows the tainted results of the elections held on March 18 due to widespread electoral irregularities.
In a statement obtained by ACI Africa Friday, November 3, NPC members who include Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of Nigeria’s Sokoto Diocese and John Cardinal Onaiyekan have emphasized the need for peaceful participation, truthfulness, and unity in the upcoming elections.
“The forthcoming off-cycle governorship elections should exemplify our commitment to free and fair processes and the principle of one person, one vote,” NPC members say in the one-page statement.
Emphasizing the committee’s commitment to peace and the sanctity of elections in the country, the members add, “Nigeria's democratic journey is marked by significant milestones and unwavering commitment to democratic values by its citizens.”