The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has stated that the comment ascribed to the chairman of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, on the upcoming elections is reckless.
Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the Forum’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, stated in a statement that it is the worst thing that can be said when advocating a candidate.
He said; “Northern Elders Forum(NEF) has reviewed the preparations for the forthcoming elections, particularly in light of recent developments and its planned Northern General Assembly.
“The Forum took note of the comments of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, leader of one of the Afenifere organizations. In his usual rantings, this time in campaigning for Mr Peter Obi of the Labour Party, he said, among other inflammatory outbursts, that if Nigerians do not elect his candidate, it will be the end of Nigeria. This statement is, to say the least, irresponsible and condemnable.
“It is the worst thing that can be said in promoting a candidate, but that is the business of the candidate. We do not believe that Chief Adebanjo’s reckless outburst reflects the quality or essence of the Obi/Datti ticket.
“The Forum advises people like Chief Adebanjo to attempt to behave more responsibly. These elections will not be won by threats and insults. Nigerians will not be scared from exercising their choices freely.
“The unity and survival of Nigeria are not dependent on politicians who think they can intimidate citizens, or instigating actions that will subvert a credible election and a peaceful transition to the next administration.
“The North is committed to supporting a credible election under peaceful conditions, and will support any candidate who emerges as leader through it. It appeals to leaders, elders, politicians and the authorities to resist inciting particularly young Nigerians who are more gullible and exposed to dangerous rhetorics.
“If there are Nigerians with any influence over Chief Adebanjo, they should advise him to show respect for his age and all the advantages he enjoys from being a Nigerian,” the statement added.
Ayo Adebanjo has stated that if the Labour Party’s presidential nominee, Peter Obi, loses his election, Nigeria may perish.
Adebanjo spoke after a meeting of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, SMBLF, in Abuja.
He said a Southerner might not have the chance to rule Nigeria if Obi loses in 2023.
Adebanjo who said voting for Obi would show that Nigeria values ethnic and religious inclusion, urged Nigerians and Obi’s followers to gird up for battle because their opponents are not sleeping at all.
He insisted that Obi is not only competent but should be voted by Nigerians as their next president for the sake of equity and fairness, and to keep Nigeria united.