Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
As the countdown to the November 8 governorship election begins, Non-indigenes in Anambra State have advocated for a peaceful coexistence of political supporters in the state.
In a statement signed by its leadership, the non-indigenes under the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS) warned against inflammatory rhetoric, electoral violence, and divisive politics.
The statement which was jointly signed by the president of the association, Prince Chigozie Nweke, Associate Woman leader Mrs. Victoria Bata Okafor, and the youth leader, Comrade Godwin Otu, urged political stakeholders and their followers to respect each other’s ideologies as the state heads into a crucial election season.
“ANIAS calls on the good people of Anambra State to maintain the peaceful coexistence of political ideologies during the forthcoming Governorship Election,” the statement read.
“We urge supporters across different political circles to respect one another and avoid politics of bitterness and evil practices.”
The association also cautioned its members against becoming instruments of political violence or manipulation, saying, “One does not set fire to his or her own home.” The metaphor, they explained, is a reminder that no political goal is worth the destruction of communal peace and safety.
They also extended congratulatory messages to key gubernatorial candidates across major political parties including incumbent governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, and his running mate, Dr. Ibezim Onyekachi.
Similarly, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chief George Muoghalu of the Labour Party were also commended by ANIAS for their successful nominations, with the group hailing their commitment to public service and democratic principles.
Founded as a platform to promote unity and protect the interests of non-indigenes living in Anambra, ANIAS said it would continue to work with government and the civil society to encourage voter participation, civic education, and issue-based campaigns.
