Nasarawa state Governor Engr. Abdullahi A.Sule has appealed to citizens of the State to exercise their rights to vote on Saturday March 18 in a peaceful manner.

A press release by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Adra quotes him as saying hat people must exhibit conducts that sustain and promote the relative peace that has prevailed in the state since 2019, adding, “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”.

The rest of the press release reads in full: “Governor Sule notes with sadness how in the build up to the Presidential and National Assembly election, some elements within and outside the state introduced religion and ethnicity into our body 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 nor understanding of the dynamics of our dear state. Governor Sule promptly held meetings with traditional and religious leaders, stressing the need to caution their 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 there emerged another video of hooded elements supposedly wielding arms, making threats and comments capable of inciting intolerance amongst unsuspecting members of our communities.

“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. The security apparatus in the state has since commenced forensic investigations to fish out the authors of this highly inflammatory footage and their sponsors.

“It is also important to note the following: “There have been spurious allegations of threat to violence and purported importation of thugs into the state to foment trouble during the gubernatorial elections from some quarters.

“We challenge those alleging such to provide proof and as responsible citizens hasten to report to the appropriate security agencies.

“It is our desire and commitment that we have a peaceful, free and fair election in Nasarawa state and the country at large.

“We therefore warn that mischief makers who obviously do not mean well for Nasarawa State should have a change of mind

“It is worth reiterating that this administration does not believe in nor subscribe to the politics of religion or ethnicity.

“People should go to their respective polling units and vote their conscience.

“The Nasarawa state Governor deems it necessary to remind all politicians that there must be a Nasarawa state before we think of its leadership. We must therefore put the interest of the state over and above any other consideration in all we do

“He reassured that his administration remains alive to its responsibilities of protecting the lives and property of our people at all times.

“I must warn trouble makers that they will be apprehended, prosecuted and punished according the laws of the land.

“Engr. Sule urges the people of Nasarawa state to be vigilant, discerning and report any person or group of persons who threaten our peace and unity before, during and after the election”.