The National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF), a coalition of Christian elder statesmen from across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, has endorsed Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for the February 25 elections. In a statement titled “Resolutions towards 2023 elections: Think new,” signed by chairman Dr. Samuel Gani and secretary Pastor Bosun Emmanuel, the forum also warned security agencies not to dismiss reports that some regions might unleash violence during the polls. While urging the federal government to intensify efforts to prevent election‑related violence, the elders called on Nigerians to reject politics of religion and tribalism and to vote based on a candidate’s capacity, ability, integrity and good health, noting that “a sick country requires hearty leaders.”
The statement, obtained in Abuja on Tuesday, listed NCEF members, including Dr. Saleh Hussaini (Vice Chairman, North), Elder Shyngle Wigwe (Vice Chairman, South), Mrs. Osaretin Demuren, Prof. Joseph Otubu, Dr. Kate Okpareke, Dr. Ayo Abifarin, Gen. Zamani Lekwot (retired), Hon. Justice James Ogebe (retired), Elder Moses Ihonde, Hon. Justice Kalajine Anigbogu (retired), Elder Nat Okoro, Solomon Asemota (SAN), Elder Matthew Owojaiye, DIG P. L. Dabup, Sir John W. Bagu, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Dame Priscilla Kuye, Prof. Deborah Ajakaiye, His Royal Majesty Oba Dokun Thompson, and Dr. Taiwo Idemudia.
The forum’s declaration emphasized the need to preserve democracy in Nigeria and eradicate the corruption, incompetence, lawlessness and impunity that have plagued the country for the past 24 years. “Nigeria requires new leaders, new methods, new policies and new political parties,” the statement read, adding that equity, justice, inclusiveness and unity are essential for a preferred future. Accordingly, NCEF endorsed Mr. Peter Obi as the presidential candidate to be voted for and urged all eligible Nigerians to fulfill their civic duty by choosing leaders who demonstrate capacity, competency, integrity and good health.
NCEF noted a growing public emphasis on capacity and integrity over emotional or tribal loyalties, which have historically allowed unqualified individuals to assume leadership. The forum commended the federal government for steps taken to curb vote‑buying in the 2023 elections, acknowledging that the currency‑change policy, while inconvenient, offers long‑term benefits. It stressed that preventing vote‑buying is crucial to stop unqualified and incapable persons from bribing their way into power.
Finally, NCEF reiterated that the upcoming elections should focus on national integration, reconciliation and unity, fostering social, economic and infrastructural development for the benefit of all Nigerians.
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