The Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to intensify efforts toward a credible and violence-free election across country.

The AANI President and former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), MD Abubakar, made the call via a statement issued on Tuesday.

The former IGP stated that the prevailing economic difficulties in the country have been aggravated by additional tension occasioned by perennial fuel scarcity and cashless policy and must be addressed decisively ahead of the 2023 general election.

Abubakar said the government must ensure that an enabling environment is created for Nigerians in all parts of the country to freely exercise their franchise, adding that reliable elections and a smooth handover of power would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and help it reach its full potential.

The AANI President said the association condemns all forms of electoral malpractice, including intimidation, vote-buying and election violence.

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He urged all candidates for the various elective positions to eschew violence and money politics and uphold global best practices and focus on the issues of security, welfare, and economic prosperity of Nigerians above personal and pecuniary interests.

He also urged politicians to follow the rules and respect the results of elections and advised voters to choose candidates based on their skills and honesty rather than putting their children’s and grandchildren’s futures at risk for small sums of money or ephemeral items.

He stated that, as part of its efforts to promote credible elections, AANI is poised to observe the forthcoming elections across the country.

Abubakar said AANI will not be biased with the monitoring of watching elections, adding that it would do its job as a national organisation with the utmost dedication and impartiality, just like it did during the last elections.

He recalled that AANI had held a national conference on national unity in September 2022, which he said came up with far-reaching recommendations for implementation by the government and other stakeholders, adding that the association is always available for partnership and further collaboration to enhance national unity and cohesion.

The Star