As the 2015 elections gathers
momentum with its attendant apprehension it stirs within the polity, The 2face
Foundation in partnership with Young Stars Foundation, National Democratic
Institute (NDI) , and other partner organisations, have flagged off the “VOTE
NOT FIGHT – ELECTION NO BE WAR" campaign, geared towards a violence free
electoral process in 2015.
This timely initiative was officially unveiled at a
press conference held at The Events Centre, Alausa, Ikeja on the September 30,
2014.
The "VOTE NOT FIGHT, Election No Be War" campaign is an
initiative championed by iconic music star, 2face Idibia, and targeted
primarily at the youth demographic which incidentally constitutes by far the
largest voting population in the country and also the main culprits in election
violence.
In attendance were a cross section of the press and a heavy
representation of civil society organisations from far and near, who responded
enmasse, united by one common cause - a desire to work towards violence-free
elections in 2015, as well other concerned citizens including the matriarch of
the Kuti family, Ms. Yemi Ransome kuti, among others.
Also unveiled at
the launch was the project theme music recorded by 2face Idibia as part of the
Million Voices for Peace (MVP) project, and a Public Service Announcement video
by the BBC Media Action to sensitize the electorates on the need to VOTE NOT
FIGHT.
Fielding questions from members of the press as well other civil
society organisations present, the panel made up of 2face Idibia, Maxwell
Machill (Senior Program Manager – NDI), Mrs. Ijeoma Okey-Igbokwe (HOD, Voters
Education – INEC), Kingsley Bangwell (Youngstars Foundation and Efe Omorogbe
(representing The 2face Foundation), gave insightful answers and offered
clarifications where required. Also to lend support to the campaign was the
United States Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, who though not physically
present, delivered a pre-recorded speech via multi media.
The highlight
of the launch was the signing of the pledge by 2face Idibia, Now Muzik artiste
and collaborator on the MVP "Break the Silence" single, Henry ‘K
Slim’Kosiso, Ms. Ransome-Kuti and EiE's Yemi Adamolekun, followed by the other
attendees.
Other partners on the VOTE NOT FIGHT, ELECTION NO BE WAR Campaign
include the Enough Is Enough (EIE) Coalition, Isa Wali Empowerment Initaitive,
Development Initiative For African Women, Hip TV, The Bridge Youth Development
Foundation, One Life Initiative for Human Development, The Bridge Youth
Development Foundation, etc.
To register and joining the growing
campaign, visit www.votenotfight.org
Follow me on Twitter and Instagram: @effiongeton
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