MUSWEN, the umbrella body for all Muslim organizations in the South West, made this appeal on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, following the call by some political parties and individuals, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, for the cancellation of the election results and the rescheduling of a fresh election.
In a statement released by MUSWEN, the group expressed concern over the rising tension in the country as a result of the ongoing electoral process and called on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and due process.
The group also urged political parties and their candidates to desist from making inflammatory statements that could incite violence or disrupt the peace.
According to MUSWEN, the call for the cancellation of the election results and the rescheduling of a fresh election is premature and unnecessary.
The group noted that INEC has the constitutional mandate to conduct and supervise elections in Nigeria and that it is imperative for all stakeholders to allow the commission to perform its duties without interference.
MUSWEN also emphasized the need for political parties and their candidates to respect the sanctity of the ballot box and the will of the people. The group urged them to accept the outcome of the election, even if it is not in their favour, and to seek redress through legal means rather than resorting to violence or incitement.
The group further called on the federal government to provide adequate security for the electoral process and ensure that the votes of the people count.
MUSWEN noted that the failure of the government to provide adequate security and ensure free, fair and credible elections could lead to violence and insecurity in the country.
MUSWEN also called on the media to exercise responsibility in their reportage of the electoral process and to refrain from sensationalizing or spreading fake news that could incite violence or undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
The group expressed its commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and unity among all Nigerians, regardless of their religious, ethnic or political affiliations.
MUSWEN urged Nigerians to uphold the virtues of peace, tolerance and respect for one another, and to work towards building a better and prosperous Nigeria.