Elections: Let Abuja peace accord work, PENGASSAN urges politicians

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria has advised politicians and their followers in the country to allow the Abuja Peace Accord that was brokered by the international community and signed by the presidential candidates of 14 political parties to work.

In his opening remarks during the National Executive Council meeting of the association in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Friday, the President of PENGASSAN, Comrade Francis Johnson, noted that 2015 is a remarkable year in the political life of Nigeria.

Johnson added that the election marks the maturity of the nation in deciding its strength and weaknesses to transform from one civilian regime to another.

“There is global focus on government, especially the Prof. Attahiru Jega-led Independent National Electoral Commission, to live up to expectations through the conduct of free and fair elections, where electorate votes count on ‘One Man/Woman, One Vote’ basis as step towards delivering credible elections,” he said.

The PENGASSAN president implored all political parties to tread with caution to explore the path of peace and the principle of fair play during the polls where there are reports of wrangling and bickering among themselves.

He advised political leaders and their followers to neither see the elections as “an end in itself nor a do or die affair”, adding that all political parties and their gladiators should  collaborate to ensure that “Project Nigeria does not fail, as all of us, including the politicians, have no other country, except our dear country”.

Comrade Johnson enjoined all stakeholders, especially the politicians and their followers, to pursue peace, unity and progress to nurture the nation’s growth.

He said if the Abuja Peace accord works, Nigeria will emerge as one peaceful and united indivisible entity.

The PENGASSAN president, who called on the all Nigerians to go out and cast their votes, said: “Nigerians should look at the agenda of individuals standing for elections at the general elections before casting their votes.

“Campaigns must be protected and guided to eradicate mudslinging while promoting robust and persuasive debates with healthy rivalry that can bring out the best among parties and candidates.”