The Director General of National Orientation Agency, Dr. Garba Abari, has cautioned politicians against violence and hate speech ahead of the 2019 general elections.
This was just as NOA said if the electoral body, security agencies, political parties and the electorate failed its obligations, the outcome of the election will not be accepted by Nigerians and indeed international communities.
Abari made the observation on Wednesday at the northeast zonal flag off of 2019 peaceful campaigns and election held in Bauchi State.
The DG added that it was not time for character assassination, fake news and hate speeches, saying politicians must be mindful of their utterances
“In fact, the 2019 will not only be credible, free and fair but citizens and indeed international communities will not accept the election outcome resulting from crisis,” Abari warned.
He had also cautioned against provocative statements capable of heating the nation’s polity with the aim of precipitating breakdown of law and order.
Abari stressed that the agency was in synergy with security agencies and will not welcome voters coming with weapons to the voting points.
“NOA in collaboration with security agencies will not relent to confront voters in possession of weapons at the voting points to ensure free, fair and peaceful election,” said the DG.
He appealed to the youths to vote leaders of their choice, advising them not to be used as political thugs during election.
“Those dissatisfy with the outcome of the election should seek redress at the competent court of law and not to take law into their hands,” stressed Abari.
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