Religious leaders to INEC, security agencies: be neutral

RELIGIOUS leaders in the Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace have urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies to observe neutrality and impartiality in the conduct of the upcoming general elections.

They also charged the Federal Government to take steps at improving the security situation, with special attention to insurgency that has ravaged some parts in three Northern states for the security of people in the affected areas during the elections.

In a communique issued in Abuja yesterday, following a crucial meeting last week, the interfaith religious leaders stressed the need for INEC to be independent and impartial in the conduct of the elections.

The communique, jointly signed by Bishop Sunday Onuoha and Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sani, also urged the government to engage in adequate sensitisation of the public on the need to embrace peace before, during and after the elections

The religious leaders called on political parties, traditional leaders and other stakeholders to exercise restraint in their choice of words to avoid heating up the polity.

The communique stated: “That government should beef up security, especially in areas ravaged by conflicts and ensure that no citizen is disenfranchised owing to prevailing security challenges.

“That the security agencies should be unbiased and remain neutral while discharging their duties during the forthcoming general elections.

“Relevant stakeholders, such as religious bodies, civil society organisations, town unions, youth groups have critical roles to play to douse the palpable tension and ensure hitch-free elections.”