I Won’t Allow Influential Politicians Intimidate Nigerians – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has stated that for the 2023 elections, the government will ensure that Nigerians don’t get intimidated, or humil*ated by those in positions, or the more privileged.

The President said this while receiving members of Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) led by Chairman and Governor of Kebbi State, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, at the State House, Abuja on Tuesday.

“We will not allow anyone to use personal resources or their influence to intimidate other Nigerians. We will not allow intimidations materially, morally or physically. This is the kind of leadership that can emerge and consolidate our nation.

“In six months, Nigerians will appreciate the government of APC that we are sincere and we respect them,’’ he added.

President Buhari, in a statement issued by his spokesman, Femi Adesina, urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) political leaders to intensity efforts in “thinking, meeting and strategizing for the 2023 elections.’’

The President opened up on the reasons why he believed in non-interference in the political process, saying that non-interference in elections gave credence to the political process, ensured participation and inclusiveness, and showed that the governing APC respected the electorate.

He assured Nigerians that the APC would continue to bequeath strong political institutions that reflected their choices, through non-interference in elections, citing outcome of polls in Ekiti, Anambra and Osun States as indicators.

President Buhari said APC, under his leadership, will continue to respect Nigerians by ensuring that their votes count and the people’s voice matter in choosing political leaders at different levels.

“I want Nigerians to know that we respect them, and for us to show that we will allow them to vote who they want. We all witnessed what happened in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun States. What happened in those states gives me a lot of hope that we are succeeding.’’