Kebbi Elders Forum Expresses Concern Over Rising Political Tension
The Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum has raised alarm over the escalating political rhetoric in the state, which it believes threatens the peaceful coexistence and socioeconomic development of Kebbi.
In a statement issued by Justice Mohammed Suleiman-Ambursa, the forum’s First Vice Chairman, the group expressed concern over certain statements and activities that could destabilize the existing peace and stability in the state.
The forum, led by Maj-Gen. Mohammed Magoro, strongly condemned the incitement and praise singing of attacks on political figures, which could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
According to Ambursa, “The forum has observed some unhealthy political statements, incitement, and praise singing of attacks on some political gladiators, which is inimical to peaceful coexistence and socioeconomic development of the State.”
The Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum urged politicians and their supporters to adhere to the Electoral Act, INEC guidelines, and regulations on political activities.
The forum called on all political leaders to prevail on their supporters and admirers to refrain from making inciting statements or praising attacks on any personality, which could lead to the breakdown of law and order.
The forum also appealed to security agencies to enforce compliance with electoral laws and prosecute violators. This, according to the elders, is necessary to maintain peace and stability in the state.
The Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum further appealed to the public, social media, and conventional press to refrain from publicizing inciting statements or praise singing that could jeopardize peace in the state. The forum emphasized the importance of promoting peaceful discourse and respecting the rights of all individuals to participate in the political process without fear of violence or intimidation.
The Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum made the following key recommendations:
1. *Adhere to Electoral Laws*: Politicians and supporters should adhere to the Electoral Act, INEC guidelines, and regulations on political activities.
2. *Prevent Incitement*: Political leaders should prevent their supporters and admirers from making inciting statements or praising attacks on any personality.
3. *Enforce Compliance*: Security agencies should enforce compliance with electoral laws and prosecute violators.
4. *Promote Peaceful Discourse*: The public, social media, and conventional press should promote peaceful discourse and refrain from publicizing inciting statements or praise singing.
By following these recommendations, the Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum believes that the state can maintain peace and stability, ensuring a conducive environment for socioeconomic development and political participation.
