Senate President David Mark on Sunday took stock of the anxiety, fears and tension trailing the conduct of the 2015 general elections and urged Nigerians to put the country first before any partisan consideration.
Mark said in a statement in Abuja following the postponement of the elections that no matter the political divide, “we all must take the path of caution in order not to jeopardize the process towards a successful exercise in the Nigerian project”.
The Senate President cautioned against the hullabaloo trailing the shift in the conduct of the polls saying “it is a necessary step to avoid anarchy and chaos because of some shortcomings and insecurity fuelling the already charged atmosphere.”
According to Mark: ” To conduct a peaceful, free, fair and credible election that meets international best practices , unarguably demands that all stakeholders and participants be on the same wave length. It is a process that must a necessity be followed religiously. Any of the steps not taken or subverted could produce a questionable result.
“That is why, we must all be careful in what we do or say. I believe all Nigerians, both partisan and non partisan are passionate and indeed desirous of a successful election for the good of our nation.
“We need not do anything that would aggravate or overheat the polity. We must do our utmost best and contribute positively towards successful elections.
“Let me remind those fanning the embers of disunity or beating the war drums to rethink because the country must first exist peacefully and prosperously before we can pursue or realize our political ambitions.
“Let us give peace a chance. Let us exercise restraint. Let us dutifully follow the laws and rules and make a success of the situation. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and all the security operatives’ desire our support and cooperation.
“We must not castigate them or embark on any action likely to dampen their spirit. If not for anything, they deserve our commendation”.
Mark added: “All we expect from our foreign friends and supporters under this situation is understanding and genuine support to reach our destination and not attempt to join the fray of the confusion.
