From Abubakar Y Ojimaojo ABUJA
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has committed its support to the conduct of a credible election and a peaceful transition of the next elected president’s administration.
The forum urged members to vote for any candidates that can work per individual and also the group interest.
The Forum made the adoption at the General Assembly of the Northern Elders Forum as Patriotic citizens of Nigeria, in Abuja on Wednesday.
It also urged to respect the popular will expressed by credible elections, irrespective of the origin and identity of the winner, and also
resist any attempt to subvert our democratic system by any unconstitutional means.
“We would support the next administration to address major challenges that inhibit the growth, development, peace, and security of the North and Nigeria.
“We would engage the rest of Nigeria as respected equals, and continue to demand that the rights of Northerners will not be abused, sacrificed, or neglected by any government or group.
The adoption partly read: “The forum pledged to organize fellow Northerners to work in search of committed leadership with integrity, competence, and compassion to find solutions to our multiple problems.
“We would mobilize fellow Northerners to protect their interests in Nigeria. Cognisant of our cultural and religious difference and collaborate with other Nigerians to create a united country of people characterized by diversity and sensitivity to values of justice and respect for the rights of all citizens.
“We would also encourage Northerners to participate fully in the 2023 elections, and elect people who are sensitive to our needs;
“The forum also discourages the emergence of leaders who have been adopted by ethnic groups or any such interests and sensitizes
Northerners to fully present themselves at the 2023 National Census.”
