By InfactNG
The National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno on Friday urged heads of security and law enforcement agencies to monitor closely political actors planning to subvert the electoral process of the Ekiti and Osun State governorship elections.
Monguno said this in his remark at the quarterly meeting of the Inter Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in Abuja.
The NSA who was represented by one Sanusi Galadima in his office said thugs and their sponsors would equally be trailed for possible arrest and prosecution.
The NSA who lamented on the growing uncertainty heralding the conduct of party primaries for 2023 elections said the unabated spate of violence is threatening the upcoming off cycle gubernatorial elections in Ekiti and Osun States.
He attributed the the high spate of violence arising from internal party wranglings, increasing acrimony and bickering amongst political actors as well as the inability of various contending political blocs to amicably resolves differences in line with democratic tenants.
He said “Consequently, the above disturbing development has already culminated in intense power play capable of heightening unnecessary political tension across the country. More worrisome is the unguarded utterances of some highly respected individuals and groups which more often than not amplifies divisive narratives to the detriment of national security and stability.
“Accordingly, heads of security and law enforcement agencies have been task to step up close monitoring and profiling of political actors no matter highly placed who exhibit tendencies to subvert the electoral process, even as thugs and their sponsors would equally be trailed for possible arrest and prosecution.”
Monguno however advised the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to enjoin political parties to consistently abide by prescribed rules as outlined in their respective manifestoes.
“This is to significantly reduce areas of conflict and ensure a peaceful atmosphere for a hitch free off-cycle and general election,” he said.
