Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano
Kano State Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have called on the Police to set an example by arresting politicians who engage in hate speeches and public incitement to serve as a deterrent to others.
The President of the CSO, Ibrahim Waiya made the call yesterday in Kano during a peace summit organised by the police in collaboration with Aminu Magashi Foundation (AMF) held ahead of the 2023 elections.
Waiya said the police must take decisive action against defaulters irrespective of their status if it is serious about bringing about sanity that would translate to peace and stability of the state.
He cited instances with the recent unguarded statement attributed to the Majority Leader, Alhassan Ado Doguwa and called for his arrest.
“If truly the security agencies want to address political thuggery in the state, they have to show an example by arresting some of the big shots who are involved in uncomplimentary statements which are threatening the peace and security of the state.
“I made a particular emphasis on utterances of the Majority Leader, House of Representatives, Alhassan Ado Doguwa where he was recently quoted saying “you either vote APC or face the consequences.”
“We requested the security agency to arrest him and make him an example if they want to address hate speeches. We have also earlier condemned the hate speeches made by the Chairmen of APC and NNPP.
“So if truly the security agencies want to address political thuggery in the state, they have to show an example by arresting some of the big shots,” Waiya stated.
On his part, the state Commissioner of Police, Mamman Dauda, said the matter was not swept under the carpet as it is carrying out investigation on the utterances by the politician.
The CP said the peace summit was organised to bring together all critical stakeholders under one roof to review their roles, responsibilities, dos and don’ts towards ensuring a peaceful, free, fair and credible election in the state.
He said the command has put politicians under watch, stressing that it would not spare anyone found breaking electoral law.
According to him, the event was organized to sensitize politicians and electorates on free and fair elections.
He said the Police would check the menace of thuggery, billboard breaking and other election malpractices, ensuring that there would be a peaceful election in the state.
Earlier, the Chairman, Kano State Council of Imams, Dr. Nasir Adam, called on the contestants to embrace peace, saying election is not do or die affair.
The religious leader said whoever lost in the race should accept defeat and embrace the winner in order to work together for the growth and development of the state and the nation at large.
