Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has advised Nigerians to put away cynicism and make wise choices in the forthcoming general elections.
The bishops encouraged Nigerians to end the era of “sit on the fence” and deeply participate in the electoral processes that would herald the emergence of new political leaders in Nigeria.
CBCN President, Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze, in a statement released in Abuja, on Thursday, asked politicians to eschew comments and actions that could increase existing political tensions.
He said: “Expectedly, there is a lot of anxiety and we are right to feel a sense of trepidation largely because of our past few years’ experiences.
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“However, in spite of everything, we have remained united in prayers for a new dawn for our nation. Our hope does not disappoint us because the love of God has been poured into our hearts.”
He appealed to the security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to rise to their duties and responsibilities to ensure that the country has peaceful, free, fair and credible elections.
He reiterated that the primary responsibility of achieving free, fair and credible polls lies with the government. “We are encouraged by the recent declaration of the president in this regard. Undoubtedly, our future depends on this and we urge the relevant bodies to put our nation before any other consideration.”