The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal,has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and politicians to ensure that 2015 election is free and fair.
Tambuwal made the call on Thursday in Abuja, at the annual conference of the Peoples Media Limited, publishers of People’s Daily newspaper, entitled: Nigeria: The 2015 Question.
He said that the success or failure of the 2015 elections rested on the INEC and the current administration.
“Yes, 2015 is indeed pregnant. But it is in our hands if we want it to deliver a bright future or a foetus of aborted hopes and dreams.
“The responsibility is of course first on those who hold power currently and the election umpire that we now have.
“If they decide to conduct fair and free elections, then the hope that 2015 will usher in a more peaceful and more progressive year is not in doubt”, he said.
The Speaker enjoined all political parties to imbibe democratic culture by ensuring a level playing ground for all members of their parties.
“But first the political parties must enthrone a democratic culture that should provide level playing ground over and above every other consideration”, he said.
He stressed the need for government at all levels to uphold the rights and privileges of Nigerians irrespective of their ethnic and religious background.
“We must learn to run our government in such a manner that whoever comes to power, the rights and privileges of every citizen remains guaranteed”, he said.
He advised that those in power should not see power as an opportunity to enrich themselves and friends, but an opportunity to serve the people.
“The whole concept of democracy is built upon the idea that the people are supreme and we hold power in trust for them.
“I believe in the unity of this country. I believe in our ability to triumph over our challenges.
“I believe in our power to see beyond our subjective experiences to a more objective future. I believe that 2015 will bring us good surprises”, he said. (NAN)
