This timely initiative was officially unveiled at a press conference held at The Events Centre, Alausa, Ikeja on theSeptember 30, 2014. The "VOTE NOT FIGHT, Election No Be War" campaign is an initiative championed by iconic music star, 2face Idibia, and targeted primarily at the youth demographic which incidentally constitutes by far the largest voting population in the country and also the main culprits in election violence. In attendance were a cross section of the press and a heavy representation of civil society organisations from far and near, who responded enmasse, united by one common cause - a desire to work towards violence-free elections in 2015, as well other concerned citizens including the matriarch of the Kuti family, Ms. Yemi Ransome kuti, among others.
Also unveiled at the launch was the project theme music recorded by 2face Idibia as part of the Million Voices for Peace (MVP) project, and a Public Service Announcement video by the BBC Media Action to sensitize the electorates on the need to VOTE NOT FIGHT. Fielding questions from members of the press as well other civil society organisations present, the panel made up of 2face Idibia, Maxwell Machill (Senior Program Manager – NDI), Mrs. Ijeoma Okey-Igbokwe (HOD, Voters Education – INEC), Kingsley Bangwell (Youngstars Foundation and Efe Omorogbe (representing The 2face Foundation), gave insightful answers and offered clarifications where required. Also to lend support to the campaign was the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, who though not physically present, delivered a pre-recorded speech via multi media. The highlight of the launch was the signing of the pledge by 2face Idibia, Now Muzik artiste and collaborator on the MVP "Break the Silence" single, Henry ‘K Slim’Kosiso, Ms. Ransome-Kuti and EiE's Yemi Adamolekun, followed by the other attendees.Other partners on the VOTE NOT FIGHT, ELECTION NO BE WAR Campaign include the Enough Is Enough (EIE) Coalition, Isa Wali Empowerment Initaitive, Development Initiative For African Women, Hip TV, The Bridge Youth Development Foundation, One Life Initiative for Human Development, The Bridge Youth Development Foundation, etc. To register and joining the growing campaign, visitwww.votenotfight.org
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