National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno has asked the heads of security and law enforcement agencies to ensure close monitoring of political actors who exhibit tendencies to subvert the electoral process.
Monguno disclosed this at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) second quarterly meeting of the Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) in Abuja on Friday.
The NSA, who is also the co-chairman of ICCES, said that the political thugs and their sponsors would equally be under discreet surveillance for possible arrest and prosecution.
Monguno was represented by Sanusi Galadima at the meeting.
He said that he had noted with utmost concern, the growing uncertainty heralding the conduct of party primaries for the 2023 general elections.
“This is in addition to the unabated spate of violence that threatened the upcoming off cycle gubernatorial elections in Ekiti and Osun States, arising from internal party wranglings, increasing acrimony and bickering amongst political actors,” Mr Monguno said.
Noting further, the NSA said “the inability of various contending political blocs to amicably resolve differences in line with democratic tenants” is a call for worry.
“Consequently, the above disturbing development has already culminated in intense power play capable of heightening unnecessary political tension across the country.”
The NSA emphasised the need for INEC to impress it on political parties to consistently abide by prescribed rules as outlined in their respective constitutions.
“This is to significantly reduce areas of conflict and ensure a peaceful atmosphere for a hitch-free off-cycle and general election,” Mr Monguno said.
Earlier in his remarks, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, said that the general security situation in the country and its impact on the electoral process was a source of concern to the commission.
Credit: NAN
Photo credit: Peoples Gazzette
