NOA, IPAC Unite Against Hate Speech, Thuggery In Kebbi

From : Ayodele Ajoge, Birnin-Kebbi.

The Kebbi State branch of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) have come together to work against hate speech and political thuggery in the State. 

This collaboration was borne out of a joint meeting organized by the NOA Kebbi state office under the leadership of Malam Muhammad Nasiru Karofi and his management team.

The meeting was held at the IPAC Secretariat in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday, where the two organizations resolved to work together to address the emerging trend of hate speech and political intolerance in the state. 

The meeting, which was attended by leaders of various political parties, acknowledged with deep concern the alarming rate of hate speech, misinformation, and political intolerants brewing up in the State.

 In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the parties condemned this negative development in the history of the State, describing it as uncalled for.

The meeting affirmed the possibility of constructive opposition in a democratic governance, noting that a sitting government must tolerate and embrace opposition activities, provided they are conducted in a manner that is constructive and focused on promoting good governance.

“We condemn hate speech and political bitterness in all its ramification, however, we also recognize the important role of opposition in a democratic system as we urge all political parties to promote constructive engagement and avoid actions that could undermine the peace and stability of our state.” The communique read.

The communique commended NOA for its proactive step in initiating the dialogue and called for expanded stakeholder engagement to include other essential stakeholders, notably religious bodies, traditional rulers, key political actors, youth groups, media organizations, and government officials.

The IPAC according to the communique,  called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to intensify sensitization on the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended) and to actively monitor and apply appropriate sanctions on erring political parties that violate the Act.

“We pledge our commitment to partner with NOA in carrying out an extensive and effective peace-building and anti-hate speech campaign across all local government areas of the state,” said Ibrahim Muhammad, IPAC chairman, Kebbi State.

The Director of NOA Kebbi state, Malam Muhammad Nasiru Karofi, expressed his agency’s commitment to working with IPAC to promote peace and stability in the state.

“We are delighted to partner with IPAC to combat hate speech and promote constructive engagement among political parties in Kebbi State,” he said.

The meeting also agreed to dedicate particular attention to encouraging women’s participation in elective offices and to actively facilitate their access to political opportunities and party leadership structures.