BY Deborah Bodunde
Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has urged Nigerians to vote for candidates who will prioritise climate actions for a greener economy.
David Terungwa, GIFSEP’s executive director and Africa coordinator, Citizens Climate International, said the country needs climate-sensitive political leaders.
“It is our opportunity to vote for local action, ensuring you play your part. It is your civic responsibility. Are you not tired of sitting on the sidelines while the planet suffers? Terungwa was quoted by NAN as saying.
“It is time to take action and make a difference by voting environmentally friendly during this election period. Are you not tired of the scorching heat wave? We all are, but ranting about it won’t solve the problem. Let’s make our voices heard and demand change.
“Join us and vote for climate change. Let’s stop indiscriminate mining and other activities that can damage our environment. Let’s work together to protect our planet and create a better future for ourselves and future generations.”
Terungwa also said the impact of climate change is causing a decline in food production and a hike in food prices, thereby contributing to food insecurity in the country.
“If left unchecked, these could pose a risk to the nation’s public health, economy, and livelihood, among others. The best way to tackle this problem is by voting for leaders with a climate action plan,” he said.
“Let’s prioritise climate action in the Nigerian governorship election and pave the way for a thriving, green economy. We all need to take action to address it and ensure a sustainable future for ourselves and our unborn children.
“Let’s vote for leaders who can avert the wreaking havoc on Nigeria’s food supply, which climate change has caused, leading to shortages and soaring prices.
“By voting for climate-conscious candidates in the upcoming governorship election, we can pave the way for a more secure food future for ourselves and generations to come. Let’s make our voices heard and demand action on climate change.”
Terungwa recalled the 2022 flood incident and the impending eventualities of 2023 while noting that women in rural areas are the most affected by climate change.
“The climate crisis affects everyone, but it is women who are disproportionately impacted. The reason why we are calling on Nigerians to vote for candidates who have a clear policy to tackle climate crises is because of the negative impact on our lives and economy.
“The voters should not be in a hurry to forget the 2022 and the impending 2023 flooding as predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). We should look beyond vote inducement and the other antics of politicians and vote for climate-sensitive governors who can take climate action in their states.’’
Nigerians are going to the polls on March 18 to elect governors and members of state assemblies.
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