Ribadu warns troublemakers to stay away from Edo elections – Worldstage

WorldStage Newsonline – Ahead of the extraordinary governorship election in Edo State, National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has warned that any attempt to undermine or disrupt the peaceful conduct of the electoral process will be viewed as an attack on the nation’s democratic values.

Speaking before the Inter-Agency Advisory Committee on Electoral Security convened by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ribadu also stressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was unwavering in his commitment to peaceful elections.

Represented by the Director of Internal Security, Hassan Abdullahi, he warned, however, that those planning to disrupt the elections should not confuse the current government's commitment to peace with weakness.

“Given the violent past of some politicians and their supporters in the state, the NSA, who also serves as co-chair of the ICCES, has warned that any attempt to undermine, disrupt or interrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections would be viewed as an attack on the core of our democratic values,” he said.

“We will defend the integrity of the elections with every legal tool at our disposal, and anyone attempting to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the election will face the full force of the law. Law enforcement is on high alert and prepared to act swiftly and decisively against anyone attempting to undermine the elections.

“Voters in Edo State are encouraged to cast their votes with confidence, knowing that government stands behind them and is determined to protect their vote. Their role in promptly reporting any suspicious activities or threats to the authorities is critical.

“To our security forces and election officials, your commitment and integrity are critical. As guardians of our democracy, you must ensure that every ballot is protected, every voter feels safe, and the sanctity of the election is upheld.

“Let us move forward knowing that together we are stronger and that we will ensure the peaceful conduct of the Edo State gubernatorial election on September 21, 2024.”

For his part, the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, explained that during the ongoing election campaigns, political parties are vying for votes and are therefore worried and afraid about security.

He said: “A peaceful campaign is often the precursor to a peaceful election. I urge political parties, candidates and their supporters to keep the peace as we approach election day and beyond. Party and campaign spokespeople should tone down their negative rhetoric.”

“Now is the time for security agencies to be more vigilant. They should leave no stone unturned in tackling any real or potential threat to the conduct of peaceful and transparent elections.

“Concerns have already been raised that armed state and non-state actors could disrupt the processes. With only 37 days to go until the governorship election in Edo State and 93 days before voters in Ondo State go to the polls, we should continue to work together to ensure that the training of polling agents, logistics for transporting personnel and materials, and polling and counting activities are not disrupted in any way.

“I must also add that all your personnel must continue to adhere to the Code of Conduct and Rules of Engagement for Security Personnel on Election Duty. We are again enclosing copies of the document in your folders for this meeting. The same document is available on our website as well as on the websites of the Nigeria Police and other security agencies.”