By Anu Smith
Religious leaders, politicians and stakeholders have been tasked with their role in ensuring peace during the 2023 general elections and increased participation for entrenching good governance in Nigeria.
Imam Fuad Adeyemi, the National Chief Imam, of the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, and organiser of The Interfaith Peace Summit (TIPS) emphasised the role of faith communities in Ibadan on Thursday.
The summit has the theme “Prosecuting Peaceful Elections: Role of Faith Communities”.
According to him, ignorance between the two religion; Christianity and Islam have led to unnecessary conflict and the only way out is education.
Adeyemi, who is also the founder of Abrahamic vision said: “All the major stakeholders are coming together to see what we can do together to make sure we have peace during the 2023 elections.
“We know that Nigeria is a highly religious country and if you want to achieve anything pass through the religious houses, that is why we are bringing Interfaith; Muslims and Christians.
“Let us look into our books, what did our God say about living together and doing things in a peaceful manner and disruption.?
“Also, Other stakeholders will also talk about things put in place to ensure peaceful elections in 2023.”
In his remarks, Rev’d Kayode Kolawole, the 2nd Vice Chairman, The Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN) appreciated the organisers of TIPS, adding that the timing was apt.
According to him, looking at the past election periods are periods of violence in Nigeria because everybody wants to get there at all costs
“But with a programme like this we are being sensitised; the youth, the adult, male and female and it will help prepare the hearts of people to have peaceful and violence-free elections come 2023,” Kolawole said.
Also, Prof. Koyejo Olosho, the Chief of Staff of Oyo State Muslims said the group has been known for engendering programmes that foster peace, harmony and brotherhood.
“The stakeholders are being sensitised on the importance of conducting the next general elections in peace and without any rancour.
“My advice for Nigeria is the theme of this summit, that all of us see ourselves as brothers irrespective of our political leanings, tribal affiliation or religious differences,” Olosho said.
In her address, the Head of Voter Education, INEC, Mrs Rosemary Adeniyi enjoined stakeholders on the need to trust in the integrity of the commission and be assured that everybody’s vote will count as technology would play a key role in ensuring this.
She said additional polling units have been created in Oyo State making it 6,390 against what it was before 4,783 to increase access and participation.
Adeniyi reiterated the mantra of the INEC boss which was “Our loyalty and allegiance must be to Nigeria and only votes should determine the winner.”
