Ahead of the 2023 general elections, the Federal Government of Nigeria has called on security agencies in the country to deal decisively with any situation or group that may undermine the security of lives and property in the country.
National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno, who made the call at emergency meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security in Abuja, said government will not deal lightly with any group, organisations or institutions that decide to embark on any fundamental criminal undertaking.
He emphasized that fifty-two cases of violence in twenty-two states of the federation within one month is a bad signal which will not be allowed to continue; as it will result in a lot of complications which may breed chaos, especially as President Muhammadu Buhari is committed to upholding democracy as wanted by the people.
The National Security Adviser urged politicians to advise their supporters and followers to toe the path of peace, saying that security agencies have been given clear cut directives to ensure that the 2023 election is held in an atmosphere devoid of rancour or violence.
On his part, the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, said there have been arrests; with some charged to court over issues of election violence, adding that quick dispensation of justice will help deter others who may be used by selfish politicians to unleash terror and reduce impunity.
He said events presently unfolding show the determination to ensure that 2023 general elections are free, fair and credible, urging all security agencies to synergize and cooperate to end cases of intolerance amongst politicians; leading to incidences of thuggery, rallies and processions being stopped violently.
The IGP expressed opinion that extending security surveillance to campaign periods will go a long way in nipping election violence in the bud.
Earlier the Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who had decried the spate of attacks on the commission’s facilities, promised that nobody will be disenfranchised; as INEC will reprint all Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs, burnt in the fire that razed its building in Ogun and Osun States.
He expressed worry that if no urgent and decisive steps are taken, the attacks may intensify; especially as the election date approaches, saying that it is important to move swiftly and apprehend perpetrators, prosecute them as required by law, as well as reinforce security around election officials and electoral infrastructure across the country.
The INEC boss reminded all that election is a multi-stakeholder’s activity that requires all hands to be on deck in ensuring peaceful exercise.
He reassured Nigerians that INEC is committed to delivering a credible election in spite of the challenges, adding that the attempt to sabotage or weaken the commission’s resolve will not deter officials from conducting transparent elections in which only the votes cast by Nigerians on election day will determine winners.
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