President Muhammadu Buhari has reemphasized his administration’s resolve never to interfere with elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In an address at Lisbon during a meeting with representatives of Nigerians living in Portugal, Buhari mentioned the recent governorship elections in Anambra and Ekiti, maintaining that his government had consistently proven its zero tolerance for interference with elections. He said every Nigerian should be allowed the liberty to vote for the parties and candidates of their choice.
The president promised never to interfere in any way, reiterating the commitment of his administration to ensure that the upcoming elections run smoothly.
“We look forward to a smooth transition to the next government. As I have said before, our administration will not compromise on doing the right things and the welfare of Nigerians, home and abroad,” President Buhari said.
The president also used the opportunity to discourage the use of social media to insult and incite controversy, urging Nigerians in the Diaspora to always promote unity in the country.
“The world is a global village and technology has shrunk the world even more. Although you reside beyond Nigeria’s boundaries, you can engage easily with the country. In fact, we see the impact of that engagement clearly on social media.
“This platform has empowered Nigerians in the diaspora and given you great influence. As we have seen, however, social media can be a force for good as well as a force for evil. Many countries, including our own, have had to take strong measures against some social media platforms to curb their excesses and prevent them from destabilising our societies.
“I, therefore, call on you to use social media responsibly. We all want the best for our country and people, so let us strive to build, unite and prosper our nation and people and not to insult and incite from a safe and anonymous distance,” President Buhari said.
