The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has restated the commitment of the Federal Parliament to free, fair, and credible general elections in 2027.
According to Speaker Abbas, religious organisations remain formidable bodies that people respect and listen to.
He therefore urged religious leaders to use their influence for a peaceful Nigeria before, during and after the elections.
The speaker made the call in Abuja on Tuesday when the Religious Network for Peace and Development visited him to present its programmes ahead of next year’s polls.
This is just as the body appointed Speaker Abbas as its Grand Patron and called for his support for the campaign for peace and unity ahead of the elections.
Abbas urged the association and other religious bodies to “step up activities during the campaigns and the elections” towards a successful and peaceful conduct of the polls.
He stated that the House will always support such causes “as and when due.”
Accepting the appointment, the Speaker said he was “very elated” while describing Tuesday as an “important day.” He added that he was “humbled” by the Grand Patron appointment.
While noting that “this association speaks for itself,” Speaker Abbas said Nigerians know the antecedents and contributions as well as the benefits that the organisation has brought to the country.
Stating that the House is a “solid partner” of the Religious Network for Peace and Development, he said together with the Secretary of the Presidential Campaign Council of the All Progressives Congress, Hon. James Faleke, he will convey the group’s activities to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said he was honoured to be part of the association, noting, “I want to assure you I will not be a passive member or patron.”
A former Governor of Kano State, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, who led the delegation, presented a letter of appointment to the speaker, as well as a catalogue of past activities and programme of activities towards the 2027 general elections.
The ex-governor noted that members of the association, which he said has been existing for over three decades, are drawn from various religious organisations.
He added that the body is working towards the growth and development of Nigeria.
Shekarau also noted that with the elections approaching, the group is committed to integrating its objectives across the country, mobilising communities, especially the youth and religious organisations.
The former governor stressed that the body is after the existence of peaceful cooperation between and among all Nigerians.
“Our concern ultimately is good governance,” he stated.
