The speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, on Tuesday condemned the constant attacks against political actors across the country ahead of the elections.
Addressing the members of the House of Representatives on the resumption of legislative activities for the new year, Gbajabiamila lamented the insecurity incidents capable of undermining the successful holding of the 2023 elections.
A geopolitical research firm, SB Morgen, revealed in a recent report that 27 Nigerians were killed in 57 politically motivated violent incidents between January and December 2022.
The firm lamented the hotly contested nature of the country’s elections and warned against the violence that characterized previous elections.
“The 2023 elections that will take place on the deeply insecure terrain of the country are sure to have a profound impact on the credibility of the ballot box and legal proceedings that may arise under the current circumstances.
“The security landscape presents troubling challenges for political actors and the country. Under the current circumstances, it is almost impossible to run a smooth election in all parts of the country. As a result, INEC is preparing for supplementary elections in areas where voting might not take place due to violence. Such a solution is well within the realm of acceptance of sparse security services already fighting insecurity on multiple fronts,” the report read in part.
Gbajabiamila in his speech called for unity ahead of the election, adding that the safety of Nigerians should be prioritized.
Also Read:Gbajabimila Tricked ASUU To Call Off Strike, Then Left Them —HURIWA
He said: “As we approach the general election, there has been a marked increase in security incidents and vicious attacks against political actors in parts of the country. We must come together to ensure that this dangerous trend does not lead to circumstances that threaten the next election.
“The quality of political conversations in society, particularly in the run-up to elections, is a determining factor in electoral results and the quality of governance that will result from them. As political discourse seeks to unite people behind an agenda of shared prosperity, social development, and respect for the humanity of people, governance will also reflect these priorities.
“The constitution obliges all of us sworn to serve in government to do everything possible to protect the life and property of all citizens and promote their welfare above all else. This obligation is fundamental to the governing contract between the government and the citizenry.
“As leaders in our various communities and constituencies, we must embrace a policy of accommodation and brotherhood. And we must ensure that no insecurity that threatens the peace of our country can be attributed to our actions or statements. This is our constitutional obligation and a moral duty from which we must not deviate.”
join the conversation
Support Ripples Nigeria, Support Solutions Journalism
Balanced and bold data-driven journalism has huge financial costs.
As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to free press and free speech for a piece of cake.
If you like what we do and are ready to champion solutions journalism, please donate to nigerian waves cause.
Your support would help ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for social development.
donate now
