Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has warned that his administration has zero tolerance for individuals or groups whose actions could breach peace and security, describing the polity as diverse and delicate.
The governor stated this while hosting heads of security agencies to Iftar, the Muslim breaking of the Ramadan fast at dusk.
He said that while his administration welcomes constructive criticism from the opposition, it would not condone the spread of falsehood aimed at fomenting crisis.
According to him, freedom of speech does not grant anyone the licence to disseminate fake news capable of causing loss of lives and property.
“Some people sit in the comfort of their homes and spread rumours through social media. People should not hide under freedom of speech to cause trouble. We will not accept that in Kaduna state.
“We will deal with conflict merchants within the ambit of the law, who seek to disrupt the prevailing peace in Kaduna state in the name of politics,” he said.
Sani noted that Kaduna state remains home to diverse ethnic and religious groups, adding that the government would continue to preserve the existing harmony.
The governor informed the security chiefs that political campaigns would commence soon, as party primaries are scheduled to begin in April and conclude in May, in line with the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He urged security agencies to be vigilant, noting that some politicians who lose in the contests might attempt to play the victim by spreading falsehoods to cause confusion.
Sani also called for enhanced synergy between security agencies, local government chairmen, as well as traditional and religious leaders at the grassroots, to strengthen intelligence gathering.
He commended the focus, commitment and cooperation of the security agencies with his administration, reiterating that Kaduna state had not recorded any ethno-religious crisis since he assumed office.
The governor, however, acknowledged the ongoing security challenges such as banditry and kidnapping, assuring that his administration remained open to suggestions on how to further improve security in the state.
