Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, has asked indigenes and residents of Onitsha to participate actively in the November 8 Anambra governorship election, while maintaining neutrality as a community.
In a statement signed by Osita Anionwu, his chief of staff,
the Obi-in-council reminded citizens that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees
freedom of political association and participation.
He noted that Onitsha indigenes are free to join political
parties or support candidates individually, but not in the name of the
community or its constituent groups.
“As a multi-party democracy, every citizen has the
inalienable right to belong to, attend rallies, and canvass for any political
party of his or her choice without coercion or force,” the statement reads.
“For communal cohesion and well-being, all Onitsha
constituent groups are, of necessity, politically non-partisan.
“We support and cooperate with duly elected governments at
all levels.”
The council said it had observed that some chiefs and group
leaders were being invited to political campaign rallies, but clarified that
such participation was in a personal capacity.
“It must be clearly understood that such individuals
participate in these activities privately and not as representatives of their
constituent groups, as they have no mandate to do so,” the statement added.
The council asked eligible voters in Onitsha to take part in
the electoral process, including voter registration and the forthcoming
election.
“Every Onitsha indigene and resident should freely vote for
their preferred candidate without fear, coercion, or intimidation,” he said.
The council also called on the
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to
ensure a transparent and peaceful poll.
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