By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Community Advocacy for Peace and Strategic Leadership Initiative (CAPSL-Initiative) on Monday said the rancour-free affirmation process that led to the emergence of All Progressives Congress chairmanship candidates for the November 16 Ogun State Local Council election will engender peace.
The Group attributed the peaceful process to the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and said the usual tensions that characterised exercises of that nature were absent, due to the seamless manner with which choices were made.
This is contained in a statement jointly signed by Akwuobi Francis, and Pius Pamela, chairman and Secretary respectively.
CAPSL-Initiative said that the development underscored the capacity and capability of Governor Abiodun to engender consensus; a development that will bring mitigating effect to bear on likely pre and post-election crises across the 20 LGAs.
While clarifying that it has no political leaning whatsoever, CAPSL-Initiative said its interest is the security of lives and property of Ogun residents before, during and after the election.
“We make bold to say that the initiative midwifes of the Governor will de-escalate whatever tensions that would have accompanied the exercise.
“Again, this will have far-reaching effect, as security and law enforcement agencies will sustain ongoing efforts at containing security challenges”, the group stated.
The CSO urged the public to support relevant authorities by reporting suspicious movements and activities, saying security now a whole-of-society approach.
It further enjoined other critical stakeholders in the society, including non-governmental organisations and corporate entities to show commitment to peace, security and order in the Gateway State.
“We call on sister civil society organisations, corporate bodies and others to work for the progress of Ogun State in particular, and Nigeria in general.
“We make a passionate appeal to parents/guardians to preach the gospel of morals and good conduct to their children, while also urging youth groups to sensitive members on the danger of running a foul of the law.
“In conclusion, we wish to reiterate our earlier charge to political parties, supporters and other stakeholders, to play by the rules before, during and after the forthcoming council election.
“Nigerians must, at all times, understand the fact that there is no substitute for Peace/order.”
