We can’t afford to fail – Atiku

Former vice-president, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to block all loopholes that are capable of jeopardising the success of the general elections, saying the nation cannot afford to fail. In a statement issued by his media office on Thursday, Atiku noted that the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, carried a heavy burden of meeting the expectations of Nigerians and the international community, giving the enthusiasm that greeted his appointment. He advised the electoral body to maximise the goodwill it was enjoying by ensuring the success of the National Assembly election on Saturday. He said, “Goodwill is a major factor for the success of any organisation and the outcome of the National Assembly election will determine whether or not the goodwill will remain or evaporate. “The outcome of this election (National Assembly) will go a long way to determine the success of the next stages and the attitude of INEC to conduct free and fair election.” While calling on eligible voters to come out once again to vote leaders of their choice, he urged them not to allow last Saturday’s botched National Assembly election to dampen their enthusiasm. He said, “Democracy affords the people the opportunity for peaceful change.” He, therefore, advised Nigerians not to miss the opportunity. By Agency Reporter Courtesy Of: Punch