Prior to the elections in 2023, the Christian Association of Nigeria’s (CAN) Youth Wing yesterday urged the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security organizations to apprehend and prosecute individuals and organizations spewing hate speech.
According to the religious organization’s National Chairman, Belusochukwu Enwere, the call became necessary to maintain the nation’s calm and stop the antics of troublemakers hoping to incite pre-election violence.
“Violence cannot be used to win elections. Every political party in Nigeria is free to hold elections in any state, zone, or region that they want.
Because of egotistical people and organizations who depend on violence for their living, Nigeria cannot afford to start any wars.
The 2023 elections will serve as a true test of Nigeria’s unity, and we cannot trade them for anything. Nigerians must be given the freedom to select their own leaders without being threatened or harassed.
While wishing for a peaceful election, I urge the DSS, police, military, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to apprehend and bring charges against individuals or organizations who incite violence during and after this electioneering period.
This action is being taken to maintain calm and harmony in Nigeria, he stated.