By Evelyn Omotoye
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Ahead of 2019 general elections in the country, the National Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) has told to discharge their duties in all fairness and sincerity and give a level playing ground for all to ensure the emergence of the popular wish of the people.
The Ondo State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria(CAN), Revd. Dr. Ayo Oladapo gave this charge recently while speaking with journalists at a forum for good governance held in Akure North local government of the state.
Oladapo, who noted that INEC is the major stakeholder and determinant of how free, fair credible and acceptable the elections would be, said the commission should be really, trustworthy, equal to the task and should not be bought-over by desperate politicians to upturn the will of the people.
His words: “INEC must be sincere and play fair in the coming elections. They must not dance to the tune of the politicians and the powers that be but allow the choice of the people be, so as not to betray the confidence reposed in them.
The CAN chairman equally charged politicians to be sincere with their intentions and ready to fulfill whatever promise they would make during their electioneering campaign and not deceive people with money or sweet words anymore.
“Politicians should fear God and respect people’s wish. They should not force themselves on people in desperation. They should bear in mind that it is only God that can put them into power.
“They should be ready to give quality service to the people in genuineness of heart and don’t play politics of bitterness, vendetta or clampering down on those who speak out the truth. They should have common purpose of developing the nation and making our lives and society better”, he added.
While positing that most politicians are products of the church, the Christian leader urged the clergy and other spiritual leaders to stand for the truth and make sure the church produces well disciplined members who would eventually emerge as leaders in the country.
“Religious leaders have a vital role to play in ensuring whoever will emerge to lead the people are godly. Most of the politicians are part of the church, hence the need for the clerics to start moulding them through sound teachings, guidance and counseling so that they can become good leaders that are much desired”, he said.
