My govt will not compromise on welfare of Nigerians– Buhari tells Nigerians in Portugal

President Muhammadu Buhari, Wednesday night in Lisbon, Portugal, assured Nigerians of a free hand to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The Nigerian leader reaffirmed the seriousness of his government to making sure that the electoral commission conduct peaceful, free, fair and credible elections in 2023.

The spokesperson of the president, Garba Shehu, has via a statement disclosed this on Thursday.

While addressing representatives of Nigerians residing in Portugal, the President revealed that with the aftermath of the primaries of the political parties, all hands are on deck to ensure a transparent and acceptable election.

“We also look forward to a smooth transition to the next government. As I have said before, our administration will not compromise on doing the right things and the welfare of Nigerians, home and abroad,” the President said.

The president made reference to the last gubernatorial elections in Anambra and Ekiti State, as proofs of his non interference in elections and desire to ensure that all Nigerians are allowed to vote for the party and candidate of their choice.

The President also cautioned members of the public to desist from the use of social media to abuse others and incite from an anonymous distance, telling Nigerians in the Diaspora to always promote Nigeria’s unity.

“The world is a global village and technology has shrunk the world even more. Although you reside beyond Nigeria’s boundaries, you can engage easily with the country. In fact, we see the impact of that engagement clearly on social media.

“This platform has empowered Nigerians in the Diaspora and given you great influence. As we have seen, however, social media can be a force for good as well as a force for evil.

“Many countries, including our own, have had to take strong measures against some social media platforms to curb their excesses and prevent them from destabilizing our societies.

“I, therefore, call upon you to use social media responsibly. We all want the best for our country and people, so let us strive to build, unite and prosper our nation and people and not to insult and incite from a safe and anonymous distance,” he said.