Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe, has urged politicians in the country to shun campaigns of calumny and play politics with utmost fear of God, maturity and decorum.

The Etsu Nupe and chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, stated this during a special prayer marking his 70th birthday and 19 years on the throne at his Wadata Palace, Bida, on Sunday.

He underscored the need for all Nigerians, irrespective of religious, political or ethnic affiliations, to put national interest above self-interest.

This, he said, was the only way to ensure free, fair, credible and peaceful conduct of the forthcoming polls and the peace, unity and socio-economic prosperity of Nigeria.

“The country must exist first, harmony must thrive amongst citizens; only in such an environment we all will be able to pursue our various endeavours, including politics,” he said.

Similarly, he urged youths in the emirate, state and the country to shun thuggery during the campaigns.

Mr Abubakar also called on his people at home and in the diaspora to be united wherever they were residents.

The Etsu Nupe said such an act would attract the desired progress within the Nupe kingdom, Niger State, and Nigeria.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello was represented at the ceremony by his deputy, Ahmed Mohammed Ketso; the APC governorship candidate, Mohammed Bago and the Emir of Kagara, Ahmed Garba.

Others were representatives of emirs of Agaie, Lapai, Lafiagi, and Patigi, commissioners from the state, House of Representatives member Saidu Musa Abdul, and all traditional title holders of kin Nupe, among others. 

(NAN)