Nwogha Ndubuisi, Abakaliki
As the 2023 general election draw nearer, the Christian Association of Nigeria,(CAN) South-East chapter led by Rev Fr Abraham Nwali has called on party candidates to exhibit the culture of peaceful and orderliness in their various exercises.
Fr Nwali made the appeal during the prayer summit/retreat organized by the christian body in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
Addressing newsmen shortly, the south East chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, and Special Assistant to Ebonyi state governor on Religious Welfare, Rev Fr Nwali stated that the essence of the retreat with all the political party flag bearers in the state was to engage them on importance of peace.
The priest explained that importance of peace cannot be over emphasized, as such, candidates vying to occupy any political positions should cultivate the culture of peaceful exercise in campaigning and the general elections.
Speaking on the necessity of the christian body to counsel all the candidates, the priest tasked the party candidates on importance of peace, and noted that the state has enjoyed leaders who have interest of the people at heart, hence, prayed God to give Ebonyi state the best in the upcoming general election.
The CAN chairman while appreciating the party flag bearers for honouring the invitation, stated that all the candidates would sign memorandum of understanding as the christian body is resolute to ensure peaceful and credible election in the upcoming electioneering season.
In his reaction, the Labour Party, candidate, Arch Edward Nkwegu commended Christian Association of Nigeria for their position and pledged to continue promoting peaceful and orderly exercise.
Nkwegu, however, called on Ebonyians to eschew from violence, but elect a leader whose antecedents and track records are verifiable, knowing that “leadership is not magic where people give what they don’t have.” he said
Also, the state governor, Engr David Umahi applauded Christian Association of Nigeria for the initiative.
The governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Dr Kenneth Ugbala, called on candidates to carry on their political activities in the best interest of the state and assured candidates of level playing ground to carry on their political activities in the state.