CAN youths charge Nigerians on self-defense, vote protection

A coalition of Christian youths under the aegis of Christian Association of Nigeria Youth Wing, on Sunday, called on Nigerians to avoid being used as political thugs in the 2023 general election but to defend their votes and make sure it reflects the wishes of the people.

While warning against electoral violence, the organisation told the masses to defend themselves against killers in whatever guise.

The national chairman of YOWICAN, Belusochukwu Enwere, who gave the advice in a statement in Abuja, said the organisation, as a major stakeholder in the electoral process, would commence a global peace campaign against electoral violence in all parts of the country.

He said Nigerians must take the bull by the horns to embrace peace at all cost and at all levels.

Enwere said, “As we all know, the 2023 general election is fast approaching and the nation is ravaged by insecurity of varying degrees such as kidnapping, banditry, herdsmen, unknown gunmen, etc.

“However, the 2023 general election is around the corner, the polity is already heated up. Various political parties have already started campaigns. We must take the bull by the horns to embrace peace at all cost and at all levels. We must as well warn political parties to stick to the rules of this game, not a fight.

“Nigerians, especially youths, will no longer tolerate being used for thuggery and blood-letting during this electioneering period.

Enough is enough; people are being killed on daily basis: security men, women, pastors and politicians escaping assassination thereby leading to loss of precious lives of our young ones.

“We can’t continue this way, we must defend ourselves and our votes and maintain everlasting peace which is the known culture in Nigeria.

“Sequel to this, YOWICAN will, from tomorrow, Monday, October 24, 2022, commence sensitisation on global peace campaign (crusade) to all the zones, states, local governments as well as at ward levels for a peaceful 2023 general election and after election as well as to major stakeholders, actors and political parties.

“This sensitisation global peace campaign will help (to) educate, enlighten and create great impact to the general public.”