The United States government on Tuesday urged Nigerians to shun any form of violence ahead of the coming gubernatorial elections in Kogi and Bayelsa states.

The Independent National Electoral Commission,INEC,  conducts the gubernatorial elections slated for November 21 and December 5 in the two states.

In a statement, the US diplomatic mission in Nigeria urged all Nigerians to refrain from advocating, fomenting, or condoning violence before, during or after the gubernatorial elections.

The statement recalled that Nigerian Constitution itself states that it is the duty of every citizen to respect the dignity of other citizens and the rights and legitimate interests of citizens to live in unity and harmony.

The mission also warned political parties, elected leaders, and the various candidates involved in the election to eschew violence, stressing that they all have a special obligation to uphold democratic precepts.

The statement reads in part: “As Kogi and Bayelsa states prepare to conduct important gubernatorial elections, the United States calls upon all Nigerians to refrain from advocating, fomenting, or condoning violence before, during, or after the elections.”

“The Nigerian Constitution itself states it is the duty of every citizen to respect the dignity of other citizens and the rights and legitimate interests of citizens to live in unity and harmony.”

“Political parties, elected leaders, and candidates for office have a special obligation to uphold these democratic precepts.  The United States remains committed to working with Nigeria to strengthen its democratic institutions in the years to come.”