The NIREC YOUTH FORUM is a body of Christian and Muslim youths inaugurated by the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) under the leadership of the Co-Chairmen, His Eminence, Alh. Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar CFR, mni, Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), and His Eminence, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). Given that the youths are always the foot soldiers used for violence, we hereby present this appeal to the nation. The NIREC YOUTH FORUM appreciates all Nigerians who came out to vote on February 25, 2023 regardless of their tribal and religious identities to express their franchise to elect credible leaders of their choice. More than ever before, the youths cry for responsible leaders who care for our common welfare, well-being and collective interest. Considering the tension and the lingering suspicions across the nation, it is imperative on peace ambassadors like the NIREC Youth Forum to call on all politicians to restrain from using the youths for physical violence.
While we call on those who are successful in the election to strive for an inclusive government where everyone irrespective of party affiliation will be proud to be a Nigerian, we call on the aggrieved to seek justice through legitimate legal procedures. Nigeria is all we have; physical violence will only lead to loss of innocent lives and valuable property. We call on the MEDIA and Election OBSERVERS to give objective reports with the aim of building a united Nigeria. We thank Nigerians for growing above the syndromes of ethnicity and religious bigotry in this election. We pray for a nation where no one is oppressed based on religion and ethnicity. We call on our RELIGIOUS LEADERS to continue to preserve the sanctity of our noble religions by not enmeshing in partisan political skirmishes and unnecessary embarrassment.
We call on our fellow youths to resist political exploitation and instigation to violence. We have a bright future and we must not be misguided by those who exploit our innocence for selfish motives. We implore Nigerians to keep calm and continue to remain peace-loving citizens who cherish the integral existence of Nigeria. May we take Nigeria to a comfort zone where we can sustain ultimate trust in our electoral processes and democratic institutions. May the Almighty God guide our leaders and bestow upon them the passion to paddle Nigeria's canoe to a promised land.