By Festus Ahon
UGHELLI — THE Seriki-Muslimi of Ughelli Muslim community, Delta State, Alhaji Muhammadu Aruna, has charged politicians in the country to shun all forms of political violence in the forthcoming 2011 general elections.

Aruna, who gave the charge while fielding questions from newsmen at the Eid prayer ground in Ughelli, during the Eid El Fitr celebration, stressed the need for Nigerian politicians to be united irrespective of political and religious inclination.

He called for free and fair elections and challenged the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to provide a level playing ground for all contestants.

He urged those contesting for elective positions to accept the outcome of the elections in the spirit of sportsmanship.

Enjoining politicians to eschew any form of political blackmail, he said Nigerian politicians should rather canvass issues instead of attacking the personality of their opponents.

He also urged the youths not to allow themselves to be used as political thugs by politicians.