2023 Elections: Group Cautions Aggrieved Contestants Against Inciting Utterances

The aggrieved contestants in the last General elections in Nigeria have been urged to respect the rule of law and refrain from making inflammatory remarks or inciting followers in order to forestall post-electoral conflict.

The Muslim Media Watch Group of Nigeria, MMWG, made the appeal in a communique issued after the just concluded 3-day conference held in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, North Central Nigeria.

The group noted that the aggrieved contestants should refrain from taking laws into their hands by making incendiary statements which are capable of riling up their followers and undermine the interests and patriotic values of the nation.

It said; “aggrieved contestants should respect the rule of law and avoid taking matters into their own hands by making inflammatory remarks or inciting their followers against the interests and patriotic values of the nation.”

Also in a statement cosigned by the group’s National Coordinator, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi and the chairman of Communique Committee, Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintunde, raised concern over insecurity in the country.

They noted that the situation posed a significant threat to Nigeria’s continued corporate existence and survival as a nation, calling on all three tiers of government, particularly the central government, to take a more proactive approach in ensuring the safety of lives and property.

Delegates at the conference also noted the recent increase in hazards and harassment faced by journalists and media practitioners in the course of carrying out their duties.

They urged media owners, both in government and the private sectors, to establish a comprehensive welfare package, which includes insurance policies and security measures for journalists and media practitioners.

“This would help to enhance their commitment and dedication to their work,” the said.

Mercy Chukwudiebere