On February 17, 2023, the HUT Foundation, an Abuja-based non-governmental organization committed to promoting peaceful coexistence, conducted a sensitization campaign in the Karu Municipal Area Council. The initiative aimed to educate community members about the importance of maintaining peace during the upcoming elections.
The foundation received a warm welcome at the chief’s palace, where community heads and youth leaders gathered for the event. Chief Nicodemus Machi, representing HRH (Dr) Emmanuel Kyauta Yepwi (JP), The Sa’karuyi of Karu Chiefdom, hosted the delegation. Etalong Thomas Alama, the campaign coordinator, delivered a compelling presentation on maintaining peace throughout the election period.
The campaign addressed several critical issues that could potentially lead to election rigging and violence, including the use of phones at polling units, wearing campaign materials, and selling items near voting locations. The team emphasized that the Nigerian Electoral Act prohibits lethal weapons at polling units, noting that even security personnel are restricted from carrying weapons in these areas. Community leaders were encouraged to ensure their members avoid violence and potential triggers.
In response to the presentation, Chief Nicodemus Machi remarked, “Election is all about voting for the person you want to be your leader. The federal government have decided that it is time to change your leaders; they are not organising a place of war. The time to vote for the person you want to be your house of representative’s leaders, governors and president has come. It is not about fighting. You came at the right time, and your information will be passed to the grassroot because our community heads and youth leaders are present.”
To symbolize the community’s commitment to peaceful elections, the foundation distributed stickers to the chief’s representatives. The team also conducted interviews with local residents to gather perspectives on the upcoming elections and understand if anyone had previously experienced election-related violence.
The HUT Foundation remains dedicated to fostering peace and development across Nigerian communities. With a team of passionate and experienced professionals, they develop and implement programs aimed at building sustainable peace, promoting human rights, and empowering communities to shape their own futures.
Other foundation members present at the event included Ikenna Elvis, Jidechukwu Austin, Zainab Lawal, Henrietta Chukwunweike, and the Foundation’s founder, Precious Nkem Ogbuenyi.
For those interested in supporting the foundation’s work, please contact us through the provided information.
The HUT Foundation 
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