By Joe Egbodo
A former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Maurice Iwu, has called on leaders of political parties and other Nigerians to stop the buck passing over the current activities of the Boko Haram sect, and rather join forces in the fight against terrorism.
The former chief electoral umpire was speaking yesterday while receiving an award conferred on him by the African Students Union Parliament (ASUP). The award, the organisation said was in recognition of his achievements while in office as INEC chairman, and for his contribution to a stable polity.
Admitting that the current spate of insurgency in Nigeria was disturbing, Iwu said that it was time every Nigerian come together to fight the insurgents who he said were mercenaries from other countries sent to destroy Nigeria.
He said: “We (Nigerians) have to stop all this blame game, we have to come together and fight our common enemy. These people perpetrating all the evil are mercenaries, they are not citizens of this country, and they want to destroy our dear nation.
He, however, expressed optimism that Nigeria would emerge out of the current insecurity challenges stronger and better, stressing the need for all hands to be on deck.
Iwu charged the students to avoid anything that would tarnish their image and that of the country, reminding them that only hard work and self sacrifice could make them great in the future.
Earlier, in his remarks, Speaker of the group, Coulibaly Mohammed, said Iwu was a model and a lesson in leadership, adding that the award was conferred on the former INEC chairman as an appreciation of his contribution to the growth of peace on the continent.
He said: “Our recipient is a detribalised Nigerian, lover of students/youths and a charismatic personality whose credible credentials of efficient service delivery, high administrative acumen have helped in the development of Nigeria and Africa.”