Polls: Ignore rumours of violence, unrest -Buhari

SUNDAY ODE. Abuja

Amid heightening political tension and security concerns over Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly elections, President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Nigerians to discountenance rumours of violence and unrest as they trooped out to cast their ballots.

In a national broadcast Friday morning, he assured voters and observers alike to move freely in the discharge of their duties without fear of molestation and intimidation.

According to President Buhari, security agencies had worked hard enough to ensure the security and safety of all and sundry.

He said: “All who are able, must vote so that we may better perfect this democracy and continue to build the greater nation we seek.

” Do not be afraid of rumours of violence and unrest. Our security agencies have worked diligently to ensure that adequate security measures are in place.

“You will be able to vote in an atmosphere of openness and peace, devoid of fear from threat or intimidation.

“International and domestic monitors and observers are assured of their safety and freedom of movement needed to perform their important functions.”

Buhari also urged Nigerians to cast aside their doubts have faith that the Independent National Electoral Commission would deliver on its responsibility to the country and its citizens.

“I believe INEC realises the profound and weighty duty that rests upon it.

“We must cast aside doubt and have faith that INEC will rise to the occasion. We must believe and encourage INEC to fulfill and honour this responsibility it owes to our country.

“As your President, I hereby ask all Nigerians with voting cards to participate in defining the future of our nation by exercising your democratic rights tomorrow. I urge you to go out and vote”, he said.

President Buhari also admonished the electorate not to allow anyone discourage them from performing their civic duty on Saturday when the general election would take off with the presidential polls.

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