Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) has called on politicians and political parties to see elections as tool for development, and not an occasion for violence.
KONGONET, the apex coalition of civil society networks in Kogi state, made the call in a statement signed by Idris Ozovehe Muraina and Bola Ibiteye, Chairperson and Assistant Secretary respectively.
The coalition called on all political parties, state and non-state actors, and individuals to exercise restraint and calm as the nation approached the elections.
“Elections are a critical component of our democracy and is an essential requirement for citizens to choose their leaders and this process confers legitimacy. It is therefore, a step towards development and should never be an excuse for violence.
“We are aware of the current economic crises arising from the twin policies of the Naira redesign and cash withdraw limit policies. We however, call on all Kogite to maintain law and order as the Government of the day continue to work at ameliorating the situation.
“A breakdown of law and order is an ill wind that blows no one any good. We must stay calm as we resiliently navigate our way out of this situation,” the statement read.
KONGONET commended the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lokoja branch, for being proactive towards providing a platform to bring together the political actors in Lokoja and Kogi local government areas to sign peace pact.
It said the peace pact will go a long way to show the desire of the youth for peaceful election come 25th of February and 11th of March, 2023 in Kogi State.
“We therefore, call on all political party candidates to liaise with the coordinators of the PEACE PACT to sign up for PEACE.
“We also urge the Kogi State Chapter of the National Youth Council Nigeria (NYCN) to galvanize all stakeholders towards Kogi State Off-cycle Gubernatorial election to ensure political party candidates for the said election Sign Up on the PEACE PACT. KONGONET will be willing to participate in the process to make it more seamless.”
KONGONET applauded Governor Yahaya Bello for ensuring that Kogi Radio Lokoja come back on air at this time of critical need for information.
“We believe this to be timely as we trust that it will be use to enlighten Kogite and promote peaceful elections in Kogi State.”
