Voting is one of the civic rights of every adult citizen. Nigeria, as a country, also allows for this right. Every 18 year-old and above with his/her Permanent Voters Card (PVC) will be discharging this right in few days to come.
Nigeria is blessed with people whose majority practice Islam and Christianity. The people of this nation are so glued to religion that anyone, anywhere can come in the name of religion and deceive them.
The two religions’ watchwords are peace for Islam while Christianity preaches love. It is in the forthcoming election that these two watchwords should reflect in our actions.
Peace, according to Merriam Webster’s Dictionary means “harmony in personal relations”, it also defines love as this, “unselfish, loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another”. In a society where these two are watchwords are put into practice, it will lead to unity of the nation.
- 146,913 observers to monitor polls, largest in Nigeria’s history – INEC
- Kwankwaso: Red cap revolutionist changing the tide
As a Muslim, go to your polling unit, vote and await the result peacefully. Do not allow yourself to be used by someone whom you might not get to see again until after four years. As a Christian, have it at the back of your mind that love wants what is best for others and not only for oneself.
In electing leaders for this nation come Saturday, remember the watchword of your religion, do not allow yourself to be used in the name of religion to do anything against the law. Elections are to be peaceful and not a death trap. Vote leaders out of love and not for any personal gains.
Remember, the decision to make or mar this nation is in our hands. It will take another four years to correct whatever mistake we make now. Whenever there is love, harmony will also be there. Peace is a product of love, let love lead us all.
Our differences should not divide us but rather make us stronger. The words Love and Peace are related and that shows we are also one. Let us strive to build a nation where peace and love that will lead to unity.
Charity Silas, Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano
