The Northern Elders Forum, on Wednesday, advised leaders and elders, including the Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, to display maturity as campaigns ahead of the 2023 elections continue.
The forum’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, issued the warning in a statement in Abuja while responding to an earlier statement credited to Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
Baba-Ahmed said, “Nigerians and Northerners, in particular, will not be impressed or blackmailed into making choices that are not informed by their interests. On the contrary, they will notice that the apex Igbo organisation is virtually subverting one of its own, and blaming the rest of the country for the postures of political candidates.
“For clarity, it should be emphasised that Northern voters will not be stampeded or threatened by Ohanaeze Ndigbo. The North can identify ethnic and religious politics and will see it clearly in this statement coming from Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
“The Northern Elders Forum appeals to leaders and elders to show maturity and leadership as we embark on campaigns that are, in themselves, fraught with threats and dangers.
“The Forum advises Nigerians that the democratic system does not operate based on threats and blackmail, and we should be prepared to support and vote for any candidates of our choices next year.”
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