By Ihechi Enyinnaya
Anya-Ndi-Igbo, a non-partisan, socio-political and economic development group, has charged governorship candidates for the November 11 election in Imo State to see themselves as the Akanu Ibiam, Michael Okpara and Sam Mbakwe of today.
The group said this on Thursday in a statement signed by the president of its board of trustees, Elder Uma Eleazu; president, Chris Okoye; and secretary, Okey Nwadinobi.
The organisation also urged the electorate to vote in peace for candidates of their choice.
“The purpose of election, in a participatory system of government, is to select, from among those presented, those who shall direct the public affairs of the community,” the statement began.
“The recognition and registration of political parties, under the Constitution, in Nigeria, is intended to bring transparency, accountability and openness to political factions in society.
“The expectation is that political parties will offer different menu of public goods and services, and their associated costs and benefits, to the voting public, to choose from.
“It is assumed that All Stakeholders, including Election Managers and Security Officials, would play only the part assigned to them, so that at the end of the exercise, both the people and the elected servants would sit back to see problems solved, efficiently and effectively.
“Anya-Ndi-Igbo (ANI) therefore calls on the candidates in the election to place themselves in a mirror showing Dr. F. A. Ibiam, Dr. M. I. Okpara and Dee (Barr.) Sam O. Mbakwe and imagine Today-in-History!
“With ill-will towards none but goodwill towards all, we call on all to go forward in unity and faith and vote for candidates of their choice, in peace and love.”
Anya-Ndi-Igbo added that they would work with the government that emerges to make sure the next four years become years of development, peace and security for Imo State and the entire South East region.