AHEAD of the 2019 elections, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Muhammed Monguno says Government would demonstrate zero tolerance for political thuggery and illegal bearing of fire arms.
Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja at the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Monguno said recent intelligence reports have indicated plans by some unnamed individuals and groups to instigate violence during the election.
He said the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Adamu Mohammed has instructed the various police commands in the country to arrest anyone bearing fire arms illegally or engaging in acts of violence.
He said “some individuals who are uncertain of their fate in the elections are plotting to precipitate widespread violence aimed at sculting the conduct of the polls.
“Their strategy is to cause crisis that could snowball into endless crises for the government and citizens.”
Monguno however refrained from specifying some plots that have been uncovered but assured that security agencies would spare no efforts in dealing appropriately with any action that can destabilize the nation and paint it collectively in a bad light among the comity of states.
He said: “There are indications that these unscrupulous elements are already mobilising merchants of violence, including armed bandits and terrorists to orchestrate violence during the sections in several states of the federation.
“No individual or group is greater or more important than Nigeria. Accordingly, no individual or groups ambition is worth the loss of life of any Nigerian or national cohesion. In this regard, we owe Nigerians the duty to protect and preserve their lives and property regardless if our individual or group aspirations.”
The Security adviser further warned that no pseudo or quasi security outfits such as vigilantes or under any guise allowed to participate in election security duties.
He also charged all Governor’s at the forum to uphold their primary function constitutionally in the Security and welfare of the people.
The chairman, NGF, Governor Abdual’aziz Yari of Zamfara State also said the governors are concerned about the proliferation of arms and ammunition and the spate of kidnapping across the country.
He noted that the forum has recommended stronger collaboration and intelligence sharing among security agencies in the country to ensure that all lives and property are protected regardless of individual, group or affiliation.
Yari further explained that all members if the forum are committed to collaborate with all security agencies to deliver a free and fair elections and in an environment conducive for peaceful elections.
The Acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu also assured that all police personnel are neutral and apolitical against doubts. He added that the force personnel are working hard to mop up illegal fire arms ahead of the elections.
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