A group, Civil Society Coalition on Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution, has urged voters in Jigawa State to conduct themselves peacefully and uphold democratic values in Saturday’s by-election into the Garki-Babuba Federal Constituency.

President of the coalition, Muhammad Basirka, said this at a news conference, on Friday in Dutse.

He enjoined eligible voters to come out en masse and vote for credible candidates of their choice, urging candidates, party supporters, security personnel, traditional leaders and community influencers to ensure peaceful conduct of the election.

Mr Basirka said, “We call on stakeholders, candidates, party supporters, security personnel, traditional leaders and community influencers to put peace first. Elections should be contest of ideas and not battle of violence. This is not just another political event, it is a chance for our people to decide who will represent their voices, defend their interests and work for their future.’’

He assured that as the civil society situation room, the group would monitor and engage to ensure free, fair, transparent and peaceful election

He stated, “Our role is simple but vital in promoting transparency and accountability at every stage of the process and encouraging the electorate to come out en mass to vote without fear of intimidation. We work closely with security agencies, INEC, political parties and the media to safeguard the integrity of the process.’’

Mr Basirka also enjoined eligible Nigerians to register in the INEC Continuous Voter Registration billed for August 18.

(NAN)