CAN urged NASS to choose competent leaders with good experience, while also respecting regional and religious affiliations.
By Ishaya Ibrahim
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Kaduna State Chapter says it has observed with dismay the unhealthy use of ethnicity and religion in the hot contest for leadership positions of the National Assembly.
A statement on Monday by CAN chairman, Kaduna State Chapter, Rev John Joseph Hayab, advised elected representatives, both at the upper and lower legislative chambers to show political maturity and be responsible enough to do what will make Nigeria great by choosing from among themselves competent leaders with good experience to do the needed task, while respecting regional and religious affiliations.
He warned that some of the inciting messages now going rounds could create unnecessary strife between the South and North. He called for a halt of the narrative of Christian versus Muslim in the contest.
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Hayab said: “CAN as a body has earlier advocated for fairness before the general elections and believes strongly that a fair and just Nigeria is beneficial to Nigeria’s unity and growth.
“CAN, therefore, appeals to the political class to discontinue any action that could further divide Nigerians, rather, the elected representatives need to promote matters that could support the citizenry to attain the goals of a unified nation.
“Those who eventually become leaders of the National Assembly must be lawmakers who would guide their colleagues to make laws for the common good of the country not as representatives of their regional or religious enclaves.
“To attain a cohesive nation, CAN will pray and work for the unity, peace, and progress of Nigeria and speak truth to power.
“Therefore, as we pray for a peaceful inauguration of the next administration come May 29th, CAN strongly appeal to the political class to consider the entire country as their most important constituency, rather than promote primordial sentiments that lead to no development at all.”