We Will Tolerate Violence During February Elections – Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno

The National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (retd.), has said that security forces have heard that politicians had plans to employ terrorists and bandits to cause violence during the forthcoming general elections.

He stated that the government is still standing on its zero-tolerance for political thuggery and illegal bearing of firearms policy.

His words, “In view of the usual stereotype that elections in Nigeria are always followed by violent clashes and sometimes loss of lives and property, the security agencies have been working round the clock to ensure the next general elections are free from any form of the usual after-election violence. However, recent intelligence reports have indicated plans by some individuals and groups to instigate violence during and after the coming elections.

“Reports reaching me have revealed that some individuals that are uncertain of their fate in the elections are plotting to precipitate widespread violence aimed at scuttling the conduct of the polls. There are indications that these unscrupulous elements are already mobilising merchants of violence, including bandits and terrorists to orchestrate violence during the elections in several states of the federation.

“No Individual or group’s ambition is worth the loss of life of any Nigerian or our national cohesion. In this regard, we owe Nigerians the duty to protect and preserve their lives and property regardless of our individual or group aspirations.”

“In the same vein, we shall not spare any effort to do the needful in any event of activities that threatens the security and welfare of Nigerians. Therefore, I wish to state that no pseudo or quasi security outfits such as vigilantes or under any guise is allowed to participate in election security duties.

“The government will demonstrate zero tolerance for political thuggery and illegal bearing of firearms. The IG has instructed the various commands to arrest anyone bearing firearms illegally or engaging in acts of violence. I wish to restate that our doors are always open to collaborate and act pro-actively to maintain the sanctity of Nigeria.”