AN AVIAN CHOOSES PEACE
As Nigeria approaches the January 2027 Presidential Election, the Aviary Club of Nigeria calls on all Avians across the country to demonstrate the values of pride, humility, dignity, brotherhood and responsible citizenship.
An election is an opportunity for citizens to exercise their democratic rights and make their voices heard. It is not a reason to lose our humanity, endanger lives or destroy the bonds that hold our communities together.
As Avians, we may support different political parties, candidates and ideas about the future of Nigeria. We may disagree passionately. However, political differences must never become a justification for hatred, intimidation, violence or the humiliation of another person.
Your political choice is yours. Another Avian’s political choice is theirs. Respect it.
REJECT POLITICAL VIOLENCE
No political ambition is worth the loss of a life, the destruction of property or the arrest of a brother.
Avians are urged to reject every invitation to intimidate voters, disrupt political gatherings, destroy property, threaten opponents or participate in violent activities.
Whether such an invitation comes with money, promises, pressure, influence or loyalty to a political figure, refuse it.
Do not allow anyone to use your strength, relationships or identity for violence.
Your dignity is never a campaign tool.
PRACTISE RESTRAINT
Political conversations can become emotional, particularly when people strongly disagree. When a discussion becomes threatening or confrontational, an Avian should know when to step away.
Do not retaliate because someone insulted your preferred candidate, do not respond to provocation with violence, do not join gatherings where you can see that tensions are escalating.
Walking away is not weakness.
Sometimes, walking away is the greatest demonstration of strength, wisdom and self-control.
VERIFY BEFORE YOU SHARE
In the digital age, misinformation can spread faster than truth.
An old photograph, manipulated video, false allegation, inflammatory voice note or misleading headline can create anger and suspicion within minutes.
Before forwarding election related information, pause and verify.
Check the source, date and context. Avoid circulating threats, hate speech, fabricated stories or messages targeting people because of their ethnicity, religion, region or political affiliation.
Do not become a distributor of information that can put another person’s life or safety at risk.
RESPECT THE ELECTORAL PROCESS
Every eligible Nigerian has the right to participate in the democratic process.
Avians should respect voters, election officials, observers, journalists and other stakeholders performing their lawful duties.
If you witness intimidation, violence or electoral misconduct, prioritise your personal safety and use appropriate lawful and official channels to report the matter.
Where grievances arise, pursue lawful remedies, not retaliation.
Nigeria belongs to all of us, and the peaceful resolution of disagreements is part of building the nation we desire.
LET BROTHERHOOD REMAIN STRONGER THAN POLITICS
Within our Aviaries, our conversations and our digital platforms, let us encourage maturity and peaceful dialogue.
An Avian who supports Candidate A is still your brother when you support Candidate B.
Political affiliation must never become a basis for discrimination, threats or division among Avians.
No member should use the name, identity, influence, relationships or platforms of the Aviary Club of Nigeria to intimidate, threaten or harass another person for political reasons.
Our brotherhood must be bigger than any election.
THE NIGERIA WE WANT TO BUILD
The future we aspire to build, including the vision of a strong, united and sustainable Aviary institution and our Permanent Site, requires members who are responsible, peaceful and committed to service.
We cannot build tomorrow while destroying today.
We cannot advocate peace in our communities while participating in violence.
We cannot speak of brotherhood while treating people who disagree with us as enemies.
The conduct of every Avian during the election season should reflect the values we proudly associate with the Aviary Club of Nigeria.
AVIANS, CHOOSE PEACE.
Participate peacefully.
Respect other people’s choices.
Reject political thuggery.
Do not spread misinformation.
Do not allow yourself to be used for violence.
Protect your life and the lives of others.
And when the political season is over, remember that the people around you will still be your neighbours, colleagues, friends, brothers and fellow Nigerians.
AN AVIAN CHOOSES PEACE.
What practical step can your Aviary take to promote peaceful conduct before, during and after the elections?
Media Department
Aviary Club of Nigeria
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