President Muhammadu Buhari has promised that neither him nor members of his administration will interfere in the 2023 general elections.
The President, yesterday said that his administration will also not permit the intimidation of voters during the exercise.
He stated those in government and other highly privileged citizens would not be allowed to humiliate the electorate.
Buhari added that his administration will guarantee a conducive atmosphere during the polls.
He made the assertions when members of the Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF), led by its chairman, Kebbi State Governor Atiku Bagudu, visited him at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Also yesterday, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said concrete steps should be taken to tackle some national crises, particularly the worsening economic downturn and the protracted strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
President Buhari, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, assured Nigerians that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will continue to protect their electoral rights through non-interference at polls, citing the outcomes of elections in Ekiti, Anambra and Osun states as indicators.
The president said the non-interference in elections gives credence to the political process, ensures participation and inclusiveness, and shows that the governing party respects the electorate.
He said APC, under his leadership, will continue to respect Nigerians by ensuring that their votes count and the people’s voice matters in choosing political leaders at different levels.
President Buhari said: “I want Nigerians to know that we respect them, and for us to show that we will allow them to vote who they want. We all witnessed what happened in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun States. What happened in those states gives me a lot of hope that we are succeeding.”
For the 2023 elections, President Buhari said the government will also ensure that Nigerians do not get intimidated.
“We will not allow anyone to use personal resources or their influence to intimidate other Nigerians. We will not allow intimidation materially, morally or physically. This is the kind of leadership that can emerge and consolidate our nation.
“In six months, Nigerians will appreciate the government of APC that we are sincere and we respect them,’’ he added.
President Buhari urged the party’s political leaders to intensify efforts in “thinking, meeting and strategising for the 2023 elections.’’
Bagudu thanked the President for his leadership, wisdom and foresight, affirming that the economy had been growing despite challenges.
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