Ahead of the March 11 governorship and House of Assembly elections in Enugu State, the Nsukka Journalists Foundation has expressed serious concerns regarding the escalating atmosphere of violence in the Enugu North Zone. In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Ikechukwu, the foundation lamented that some political actors have failed to learn from the peaceful example set by the incumbent governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who has consistently advocated for peace throughout his tenure.
The foundation described the incendiary comments made by certain political actors, particularly election candidates, as disheartening and regrettable. It criticized their approach to the elections, likening it to “guerillas going to war with enemies.” The NJF highlighted the troubling rumors circulating on social media about political actors stockpiling weapons and mobilizing thugs from both within and outside the state. In light of this, the foundation cautioned all political actors and their associates against resorting to violence and threats, emphasizing that the elections should focus on electing credible and responsible leaders to guide the state.
Furthermore, the NJF noted that while the Presidential and National Assembly elections held on February 25, 2023, were largely peaceful, the discourse leading up to the March elections has shifted from campaign promises to a concerning trend of harassment and intimidation of opponents. The foundation reminded political actors in the Nsukka cultural zone that they are part of a united community, bound by common cultural and ancestral values that reject violence and bloodshed.
The NJF called on all participants in the upcoming elections to reject all forms of violence and threats, urging them to adopt a more noble and sportsmanlike attitude toward electoral contests. This call aligns with the peaceful and fatherly disposition of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Additionally, the foundation urged the governor to use this pre-election period to advocate for peace and encourage all stakeholders to emulate the examples of peaceful coexistence he has established in the state, which represent his greatest legacy.
The NJF expressed confidence that all political actors in the state, who are friends of the governor, would heed his counsel if he calls for order in the interest of peace and brotherhood. They also called on past and present political, business, and traditional leaders in the state to condemn any attempts or threats to incite violence and unrest, particularly in the Enugu North zone. The foundation believes that peaceful elections in Enugu will benefit everyone and foster stronger understanding and deeper brotherhood, which is the core principle upheld by the NJF and other political, social, and religious groups throughout Enugu North and the entire state.
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