The bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Abakaliki, Monday Nkwoagu, has advised politicians in the country to shun acts of violence during the 2023 general elections.

Mr Nkwoagu gave the advice in an interview in Abakaliki on Monday.

He admonished political office seekers to emulate former President GoodLuck Jonathan, who warned in 2015 that his presidential ambition was not worth the blood of any Nigerian.

He described the 2023 polls as “critical” in the country’s political history.

“Let those contesting for elective positions realise that election is not a do-or-die affair.

“They should know that it is God who gives power to whoever He pleases.

“Politicians and youths should eschew violent conduct and toe the path of peace as they campaign for votes,” he said.

The clergyman further said politicians fight and kill one another because they lacked the knowledge that positions come from God.

“Avoid political killings to win elections,” he said. “We are begging as a church and praying for our leaders to take it easy as we approach the 2023 elections.”

He expressed concern that some politicians had acquired arms ready to kill, saying that such an act is condemnable. 

“2023 cannot be bloody. Protect your political opponents,” the cleric said.

He further prayed that God should “open the citizen’s eyes to be able to discern and vote for good leaders, who would govern with the fear of God.

”We should not allow fear of insecurity, violence and harsh economy to cause us to stay away from voting in 2023.”

(NAN)