Segun Akanni, Toronto, Canada 
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has urged the candidates in the November 16 elections in Kogi and Bayelsa states to avoid violence.
He said in a statement from his media office that election is not war; urging the people of Bayelsa and Kogi states to take serious interest in the choices they make on Saturday.
“Election is about the people and not a war against the people,” Atiku said.
He also enjoined the electorate to make their choices wisely by electing capable hands to steer the affairs of the two states.
He particularly urgeg members of the Peoples Democratic Party to use the power of their overwhelming strength in those two states in ensuring that its flag remains standing in the Bayelsa State Government House and that the people of Kogi State can begin to have a feel of better life under a PDP administration.
He also said the senatorial election in Kogi West was crucial and that party members need to turn out in their numbers to defend the seat.
According to him, the leadership of the PDP has abiding confidence in the voters in that senatorial election.
He stated that the choice before the electorate is between a continuation of quality representation at the Senate and a promise of meaningless change.
He said it was pertinent for all political actors to exhibit necessary decorum and sportsmanship.
The former presidential candidate urged all security agencies on election duty to do their job with utmost professionalism.
He advised all parties in the election to bear in mind that democracy can flourish only when everyone plays according to rule.
