Military Cannot Conduct Of Elections Says Atiku

Eniola Olayemi

Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, says the military has no role to play in the conduct of elections.

Atiku said this on Tuesday during the party’s NEC meeting in Abuja, while responding to comments made by President Muhammadu Buhari’s on the snatching of ballot boxes.

Speaking at the APC caucus meeting on Monday, the President had ordered security agencies to “deal ruthlessly” with anyone who attempts to snatch ballot box during the rescheduled general elections.

However, Atiku believes that the president’s order is a result of his desperation to remain in power.

He, therefore, advice Buhari that his ambitions should not be worth the blood of any Nigerian, while also reminding the military that their duty remains to protect the nation.

He said, “You will recall that during the Peace Accord process, I stated in clear terms, quoting form former president Dr. Jonathan Goodluck that my ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.

“That man is a man of honor.

“Today I call on President Buhari to make that same commitment to the people whose mandate he holds, while also urging all security agencies to uphold our Constitution with an understanding that voting is a civil activity and civic responsibility.

“The Nigerian military is constitutionally responsible for protecting our territorial integrity and national borders and has no role to play in the conduct of elections.”