By Akoma Chinweoke & Anthonia Onwuka

AS the nation continues in search of a credible electoral system ahead of the 2011 elections, Nigeria’s former head of state, General Mohammed Buhari, has said the way forward is for the political elite concerned to go back to their various constituencies, talk to the  electorate, and ask for their support.

Speaking to newsmen in Lagos at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, shortly after the public presentation of Dr. Zimako O. Zimako’s book titled Face of a Nation,  Buhari said he was trying to be optimistic by advising that the ruling elite should do their work, stressing that whichever way the country was going, the elite should be held responsible.

He said:“I have already said it both in Bauchi, Kano and Lagos in 2003 and 2007 respectively: Get the elite of all constituencies to go and teach their people and lead them with respect. No sacks, no accidental discharge by policemen or soldiers, talk to people respectfully and beg them for their support and earn their respect.

I am trying to be optimistic by giving advice that the elite should do their work. Whichever way this country goes the elite is responsible.”

Also speaking at the event, former Senate president, Senator Ken Nnamani, emphasized that if the country must achieve a free and fair election in the near future, the issue of the appointment of the INEC chairman should not be done by a sitting  president.