Shun electoral violence, Man O’War Commander urges youths
By Femi Atolagbe
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Ahead of the forthcoming February 2019 general elections, youths in Ondo State have been urged to shun electoral violence.
The State Commander of the Man O’ War Nigeria, Ondo state Command, SC Adeniyan Adedayo stated this in Akure during a road walk tagged “Say No to Electoral Violence” as part of activities marking the one year anniversary of the new administration of the command.
Adeniyan stressed that youths must not allow themselves to be used as agents of disruption during electioneering period, adding that people should carry out their franchise based on conscience and personal conviction.
He noted that Man O’ War as an organisation is ready to collaborate with interested bodies and other stakeholders towards ensuring that youths are not instrumental to political instability in the country.
The State commander called on the government and other social crusaders to support the organization in its bid to sensitise the public on violence free elections.
In a visit to the palace of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, who is a member of Man O’ War, the king called on youths to embrace a rancour free election and desist from violence before, during and after the elections.
He added that the traditional institution recognised the impact of the organisation in ensuring peaceful co-existence in the state.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Saka Yusuf Ogunleye who was represented by the Assistant Director, Youth and Sports, Mrs Olukemi Okupe, said Man O’ War is a Non Governmental Organisation under the supervision of the ministry. Saying “they are disciplined, peaceful and law abiding”.
The commissioner added that the officers of the Man O’War had been assisting in the area of training corps members at the orientation camp, saying the road walk would in no small measure alert the public that they should only vote and not engage in electoral violence.
Award of Royal Patron was later conferred on the Deji and paramount ruler of Akure kingdom.