Okun Development Initiatives (ODI) has called on security agencies to perform their duties professionally with transparency and impartiality ensuring that lives and properties are protected while doing so.
In a press statement signed by the Secretary General, Apostle Olalekan Aiyenigba, ODI reminded all Okun sons and daughters that election is not war.
The sociocultural group bemoans widespread cases of assassination attempts, intimidation, coercion and arrests of political opponents in Okun land on spurious and contrived allegations.
“As the first round of the rescheduled general elections hold tomorrow, 23rd February, 2019, it has become imperative to reemphasize the need for candidates, voters and supporters alike to ensure the elections are not only peaceful but devoid of violence.
“This call is vital in view of the rancor that has permeated the polity particularly in the last few months.
“From the alleged assassination attempts on lives to accusations of intimidation, coercion and arrests on spurious and contrived allegations of political opponents across party divides; Okun Development Initiatives wish to remind all Okun sons and daughters that election is not war. Our actions and utterances during and after the elections must not in any way put our collective well-being in jeopardy.
“All and sundry are implored to come out and vote for candidates of their choices without fear of intimidation and harassment from any quarter.
“Okun people are virtuous and peace loving with no history of violent conduct during elections and this time should not be different.
“Our youths are advised to shun all acts of hooliganism and must resist any attempt by anyone or group of persons to make them tools of thuggery and violence during and after the elections.
“Parents and guidance are advised to prevail on their children and wards to stay away from all illegal acts during this period.
“Okun Development Initiatives calls on politicians to understand that no blood of any individual is worth their ambitions and political quest if truly their ambition is premised on their sincere and genuine desires to serve the people.
‘The electoral umpire, INEC is beseeched to ensure a free, fair and credible process that will produce winners truly reflecting the wishes of the electorate. The votes of the people must not only be counted, it must count,” the statement read.
ODI appealed to all Okun persons to ensure peaceful elections and nonviolent conduct even after.
