By Our Correspondent
The Executive Secretary of the Anambra State branch of the Nigeria Red Cross Society, Mr. Kingsley Okoye has warned the people of Anambra State not to link the organization with politics as they prepare for the November 8 governorship election in the state.
Okoye’s call came on the heels of rumours making the rounds that Red Cross has endorsed candidate for the forthcoming governorship election.
In a statement titled, Nigerian Red Cross Society not a political instrument, the executive secretary said the organization would never ow or in future, mobilize support for any political party or individual for the election.
His statement read: “For the record, NRCS is an Independent, Neutral and impartial humanitarian institution established in Nigeria by Cap 130 of the Nigerian Red Cross Act.
This act clearly defines the role of the institution which includes to serve as auxiliary to public authorities.
“This means that we provide emergency services and disaster risk reduction to every organisation, including government, schools, campaign rally and religious organisations without any discrimination.
“As an Independent organisation, the Red Cross determines our modus operandi and conditions to honour invitations and confirm honour to individuals and groups based on their humanitarian antecedence.
“As a neutral and impartial organisation, the Red Cross services are open to all groups willing to organize large scale events involving crowds with the strict condition of providing pre -hospital care in line with global best practices.”
According to him, the emblem of the Red Cross is protected by international treaties and can only be used for the purpose of protection as authorized by such treaty and the Red Cross act of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the status.
“Any individual, groups attempting to violate these laws are doing so at their own risk.
Therefore, the leadership of Nigerian Red Cross Society in Anambra State or its subunits hereby state for the interest of the public that we have never before, or now or will in the future declare or mobilize support for, or with any political party (s) or individuals for election into public office or any pressure group.
“We encourage all, irrespective of political ambition, to respect the dignity of those we serve”, Okoye stated.
