President Elect, Gen. Mohammadu Buhari (rtd.) has assured Nigerians that perpetrators of election violence will not go unpunished.
Buhari made this statement while fielding questions from journalists yesterday in Daura, Katsina State on the complaints over voting irregularities and violent attacks that characterized electoral process in some states.
He said “We will like to let people know that at the appropriate time those who are responsible for election violence are going to court for prosecution.
“I personally will like to be very legal about it. What we should do is to modify the electoral system adhering to the provisions of the law.”
On the running battles the Governors of Rivers, Rotimi Amaechi; Edo, Adams Oshiomhole; and Imo, Rochas Okorocha were having with officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and law enforcement agencies, he said it is important that those behind it are totally exposed so that Nigerians will know which of the law enforcement agencies and at what levels are undermining the constitution of Nigeria.
He said “I think that is what will bring more stability into the system. In view of that, I will try and work with the National Assembly to make sure that we do something about it.
“I will like to work within the system because we believe in it. I have just told you about three governors and the battle they have with the law enforcement agents in their states.
“We discussed and advised them to try and document these things legally so that it can be taken before the court and we will make sure that we register the cooperation of the court so that people who work against the law are prosecuted, especially those who have lost their immunity, especially those who think they have immunity because this is the best way to stabilize the system.”
“People must not benefit from being lawless. You can’t be in a position by virtue of the constitution, subvert the constitution and continue to enjoy the privileges offered by the constitution. I don’t think that will be acceptable by the APC. So, whether you are in the opposition or the government, you have to behave yourself. I think that is the way we can make progress.
“I think we should allow INEC to give its comprehensive report. Meanwhile, as you mentioned in some of the states, especially in Rivers and Lagos, the two parties are slugging it out. I think we have to take our time and let us get as much report as possible in accordance with the Electoral Act.
“I personally want to be legal about this so that people will appreciate that we believe in a system. What we need to do is to modify the system according to the law if we don’t like it and that no one should come out and do to the system whatever he likes.”