The United States government has warned Nigerians against any form of violent ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in Kogi and Bayelsa states.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will be conducting the gubernatorial elections stated for November 21 and December 5 in Kogi and Bayelsa respectively.
The US diplomatic mission, Nigeria through its Abuja public affairs section in a press release dated November 10, 2015, with reference number PR-046/2015, urged all Nigerians to refrain from advocating, fomenting, or condoning violence before, during or after the gubernatorial elections.
The statement recalled that Nigerian constitution itself stated that it is the duty of every citizen to the dignity of other citizens and the rights and legitimate interests of citizens to live in unity and harmony.
The mission also warned political parties, elected leaders, and the various candidates for the number political seat in the state stressing that they all have a special obligation to uphold these democratic precepts.
The statement read: ‘’As Kogi and Bayelsa states prepare to conduct important gubernatorial elections, the United States calls upon all Nigerians to refrain from advocating, fomenting, or condoning violence before, during, or after the elections.’’
It said, ‘’The Nigerian Constitution itself states it is the duty of every citizen to “respect the dignity of other citizens and the rights and legitimate interests of citizens to live in unity and harmony.”
‘’Political parties, elected leaders, and candidates for office have a special obligation to uphold these democratic precepts. The United States remains committed to working with Nigeria to strengthen its democratic institutions in the years to come,’’ the statement added.
