We Will Henceforth Arrest, Prosecute Promoters of Hate Speech – Buhari

Ololade Adeyanju & NAN/

President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday warned that the Federal Government would no longer tolerate the activities of elites who mislead the people through the promotion of hate speech.

News Agency of Nigeria reports that the President, who is the visitor to the University of Uyo, gave the warning at the 24th convocation ceremony of the institution.

Buhari was represented by the Director of Corporate Communications, National Universities Commission, Mr Ibrahim Yakasai.

The President said development and progress could not thrive in a hate-filled and divisive society.

He said universities as the home of great thinkers, should give guidance to the communities to enable the people to make informed decisions as the nation approached the 2019 general elections.

He said that the Federal Government would not condone or tolerate incendiary remarks capable of causing fear and spreading hatred among the people, from any person or group of persons.

Buhari added that the Federal Government would continue to do its best to ensure the security of lives and property in the country.

His words: “At this point, I want to be very clear and equivocal that the Federal Government will never condone or tolerate incendiary remarks from any person or group of persons, which are meant to harass, intimidate, cause fear and spread hate, no matter how highly placed such a person is.

“Law enforcement agencies should fish out people who make inciting statements, instigate civil disobedience, broadcast hate speeches or stir strife, riot and rebellion and bring them to book.

“We should continue to live together as brothers and sisters.”

The President also charged the new graduates to look beyond leaders who had failed themselves and the nation but should choose their heroes from among those who believe in the progress of Nigeria and emulate those honest and hardworking in their professions.

Buhari said there was a need for the curriculum of Nigerian universities to be diversified to include entrepreneurial skills to help graduates to employ themselves and others after graduation.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Enefiok Essien, revealed that 32 students from the institution graduated with first class honours.

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