The Dr Yusuf John-Suberu Foundation has urged youths in Edo and Ondo states to shun violence and embrace peace during the forthcoming gubernatorial elections.
The Founder of the organisation , Dr Yusuf Suberu, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.
Suberu said that violence would only lead to destruction of lives and properties, and undermine the democratic process.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that elections were conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner, where every vote counts and the will of the electorate respected.
Suberu appealed to youths to resist attempts by politicians to use them as tools for violence, and instead, work towards ensuring peaceful and credible elections.
NAN reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed the Edo and Ondo off-cycle governorship elections for Sept . 21 and Nov. 16.
Suberu said that the elections provided an opportunity for the people to exercise their franchise and choose their leaders, urging youths to make their votes count.
“Nigeria’s electoral processes are often marred by violence, resulting in physical and emotional trauma for many young individuals.
“In severe instances, these clashes can be fatal, leading to loss of lives and long-lasting scars for those affected.
“I want to urge you all, that the future of our dear states and indeed Nigeria lies in our hands. Let us eschew violence and work towards a peaceful and prosperous future,”he said.
He, however, called on security agencies to be neutral and ensure that the elections were conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner.
He assured that the foundation would be partnering with other organisations to sensitise youths on the importance of peaceful elections.
He said that any attempt to disrupt the elections would be counterproductive, and urged politicians to embrace peaceful campaigns and elections.
Suberu said that the foundation would also be organising peace rallies and campaigns in the two states to sensitise youths on the need for peaceful elections.
