Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule has called on the electorate to shun ethnic and religious sentiments during the governorship and house of assembly election holding today.
In a statement yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Ibrahim Addra, Gov Sule urged them to rather vote for their conscience during the exercise.
He called on politicians to jettison divisive tendencies but rather exhibit conducts that could sustain and promote the relative peace that has prevailed in the state since 2019.
“As we go to the polls, we must shun desperation and divisive tactics that only seek to divide our closely knitted multiethnic and multi-religious society,” he advised.
The governor noted with sadness how in the build-up to the presidential and national assembly elections, some elements within and outside the state introduced religion and ethnicity into the polity as tools for mischief and campaigns.
“Social media space is awash, unfortunately, with videos and posts that are full of vile planted by people who by their conduct appear bereft of deep knowledge of the teachings of God or understanding of the dynamics of our dear state.
“His Excellency, the governor had promptly and in many instances held meetings with traditional and religious leaders, stressing the need to caution followers while putting in place several security measures.
“It is gratifying that we continue to receive positive responses, assurance and support from our leaders in creating awareness among our people.
“Sadly, only a few days back, another video of hooded elements supposedly wielding arms, making threats and comments capable of inciting intolerance amongst unsuspecting members of our communities went viral on the social media platforms.
“Governor Sule wishes to state clearly that our citizens must disregard this affront on our sensibilities and common resolve to live together as one people.
“We urge our people not to be intimidated as the security apparatus in the state has since commenced forensic investigations to fish out the authors of this highly inflammatory footage and their sponsors,” the statement said.
He warned mischief makers who do not mean well for the state to have a change of mind in the interest of peace and progress of the state.
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