Rivers elections not a do-or-die affair, says Buhari 

Orders Security Operatives To Deal With Troublemakers

President Muhammadu Buhari has called for peaceful and orderly conduct in today’s federal and state legislative rerun elections in Rivers State, saying: “Elections should not be seen as a do-or-die affair to the extent that people will be killed, maimed and property destroyed in a mindless display of crude primitive instincts.”

This is even as he directed security agencies to deal decisively with troublemakers and those bent on violating the sanctity of the electoral process.

The President, in a statement yesterday, urged all political parties, their candidates, other stakeholders and the people of the state to ensure that the polls are conducted without rigging, violence and intimidation of opponents and electoral officials.

Buhari, according to the statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, reminded politicians and their supporters in Rivers State to put the higher interest of the people of the state in mind, as they go to the polls today.

“Innocent blood should never be sacrificed on the altar of political contest for temporary power,” the President warned.

While calling on security and law enforcement agencies to exhibit professionalism and non-partisanship in the discharge of their constitutional duties, even in the face of extreme provocations, the President directed them to deal decisively with troublemakers and those bent on violating the sanctity of the electoral process.

He also enjoined the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to do all within its powers to give transparency and fairness to the electoral exercise.

The President restated the commitment of his administration to deepening democracy in the country by enthroning a legacy of respect for the wishes of the people through free, fair and credible elections devoid of intimidation and violence throughout the federation.