By Chukwudi Osuji
A peace advocate group, Citizens Advocates for Peace is Possible in Nigeria, CAPIPIN has pledged to support efforts towards achieving peaceful and credible conduct of the Saturday's Ekiti State Governorship election exercise.
The group led by the National President, Mr. Chibuike Akujuobi made this known in a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police in charge of the election, CP Shogunle Abayomi at the command's headquarters, Ado Ekiti on Thursday.
Akujuobi said the group is committed to collaborate with the police, INEC and other stakeholders to guarantee violence free poll through constant sensitization of the electorate on the need to eschew all forms of violence prior, during and after the election exercise.
He noted that elections can only be free, fair, transparent and credible in an atmosphere of peace and urged the Ekiti people especially the youths to embrace and prioritize peace over chaos and violent conducts.
The CAPIPIN boss said, "We believe that peace is possible in Nigeria. We believe that elections can only be free, fair and credible if we all strive for peace because nothing works in absence of peace.
"This is why we are here lending our voices to peace and calling on good citizens of Ekiti State to embrace peace over violence. We must all contribute in making this Saturday's election a success."
Akujuobi also commended the Police boss and his men for all their efforts to guarantee adequate security in the state and assured the group's continued support and collaboration.
Responding, CP Abayomi thanked CAPIPIN for the visit and reiterated the commitment of the police to guarantee security and safety of all electorate and other stakeholders throughout the election period in Ekiti State.
He stated that the police have deployed strategies that would ensure that the coming Saturday governorship poll is not only free, fair and peaceful, but one that reflects the will of the Ekiti people.
The CP also warned that anyone caught in act of violent conduct or election malpractice would not escape the wrath of the law, saying, "our men will be everywhere to ensure that the election is peaceful."
