Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
The Protect Nigeria Group, a domestic observer group, has warned against post-election chaos in the country.
The group also warned against foreign interference in the nation’s electoral process, adding that Nigeria, as a sovereign nation, should be allowed to determine its political future.
In a statement by its secretary, Abdulwahab Ekekhide, the group said its call was as a result of the delay in announcing the winners of the general elections held at the weekend.
The group blamed the current tension in the country on foreign interference, and on the attitude of some Nigerians who lack a deep sense of patriotism.
“The tension emanates from international interference in Nigeria’s electoral process by some foreign NGOs in conjunction with some embassies and political class,” Ekekhide said.
The group advised political players to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship, saying that elections are won and lost.
It also called on the diplomatic missions accredited to Nigeria and their agents to adhere to diplomatic conduct in their monitoring of elections.
“We expect the diplomatic missions and their agents among the electoral monitors to observe diplomatic ethics and decorum. The Nigerian nation is greater than the selfish interest of any particular person or group of persons,” the group said.
While noting that the country is not ready for another civil war, Ekekhide stressed that countries like Liberia, Congo, Sierra Leone are recent examples, adding that Nigeria should offer the trouble makers a deaf ear in order for the country live in peace.
The group maintained that it rejected any opinion that is contrary to the peaceful coexistence and development of the country.
“These people can cause crisis and escape from Nigeria, as is the norm anytime they brew crisis in other countries,” Ekekhide concluded.