The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Youth Wing, yesterday urged the Department of State Services, DSS, and other security agencies to arrest and prosecute individuals and groups engaging in hate speech, ahead of the 2023 elections.
The religious organisation, in a statement by its National Chairman, Belusochukwu Enwere, said the call became imperative in order to ensure the sustenance of peace in the country and check the activities of mischief makers bent on inciting pre-election violence.
“Election must not be won with violence. Every political party in Nigeria has right to campaign in a state, zone or region of their choice without restriction.
“Nigeria can not afford to enter into any war because of selfish individuals and groups that earn their livelihood through violence.
“2023 election is a litmus test for Nigeria’s unity and we can not trade it for anything. Nigerians must be allowed to choose who they want to lead them without intimidation and harassment.
“While praying for a peaceful election, I call on security agencies, DSS, the police, the military, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, to arrest and prosecute people or groups instigating violence during and after this electioneering period. This measure is to ensure peace and tranquility in Nigeria,” he said.
