From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
Governor Uba Sani has warned that his administration has zero tolerance for conduct that breaches peace and security in Kaduna State because the polity is diverse and delicate.
He said his administration can tolerate criticism from the opposition but will not condone situations where the opposition spreads falsehoods to foment a crisis.
The Governor, who spoke on Monday while hosting heads of security agencies for Iftar, the Muslim breaking of the Ramadan fast at dusk, noted that freedom of speech is not a license to spread fake news that leads to loss of lives and property.
“Some people just sit down in the comfort of their homes and start spreading rumors through social media. People should not hide behind freedom of speech to cause trouble. We will not accept that in Kaduna State.
“We will deal with conflict merchants who want to disrupt the present peace in Kaduna State in the name of politics, within the ambit of the law,” the Governor further warned.
According to him, Kaduna State is home to all tribes and religions because the people are hospitable and accommodating, and the government will strive to preserve this harmony.
Governor Uba Sani told the security chiefs that political campaigns will begin soon because primaries will start in April and end in May, according to the timetable released by INEC.
He reminded the heads of security organizations that politicians who lose out in the contests will try to play the victim by dishing out all sorts of falsehoods to cause confusion, advising them to be vigilant.
The Governor also called for synergy among security agencies, local government chairmen, and traditional and religious leaders at the grassroots to deepen intelligence gathering.
He commended their focus, commitment, and cooperation with his administration, reiterating that Kaduna State has not recorded any ethno-religious crisis since he assumed office.
Governor Uba Sani said that although Kaduna State is relatively peaceful, his doors are always open to discussing how to further improve security challenges such as banditry and kidnapping.
