By Daniel Tyokua
The leadership of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the presidential candidates of all political parties for 2023 elections to keep to the promises they made to Nigerians, if elected.
The association, said after consulting with Nigerians of diverse religious, ethnic and social class on the challenges confronting the country and the possible solutions, it had articulated the ideas in a document tagged, ‘The Charter for a New Nigeria’ which was presented to the presidential candidates.
In a statement issued Thursday, by the President, Daniel Okoh, CAN salutes the conduct of all the presidential candidates who participated in the interactive session and charge those among them who have made up their minds to execute the suggested solutions for the good of the country, to walk that talk, if elected in 2023.
It explained that there was the need for proper understanding of the issues on ground and thorough planning to ensure that pronouncements do not end up as mere rhetoric while an impatient public counts the days, for implementation.
The statement said: “In view of the fact that the apex Christian body understands that Nigeria’s next helmsman will be under serious pressure to make an immediate impact upon assumption of office next year, we make a solemn promise to keep our doors open for further discussion on how best to make these laudable ideas a reality for the public good.
“Let no one get it twisted, the engagement with the 2023 presidential candidates was neither a campaign programme nor an endorsement event.
“The position we have taken on any issue of national concern especially when it relates to leadership and governance, is in the interest of inclusivity and respect for our plurality as a nation.
“We wish all the presidential candidates safety and security as they campaign vigorously for votes in the next three months, and reiterate our promise to continue to work and pray for a violence-free elections in 2023.
“We urge all Nigerians, before marching to the polls in 2023, to listen dispassionately to all that the presidential candidates have to say and judge from the depths of their consciences who will best lead the nation into a new era of peace, security, prosperity and collective progress”
