Ahead of the Edo State governorship election scheduled for Saturday, security agencies, including the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the Nigerian Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have issued stern warnings to any individuals planning to cause disruptions during the polls.
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, visited troops in Edo State and emphasized the military’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and credible election.
He urged security personnel to remain neutral and professional, adding that there would be zero tolerance for violence or intimidation.
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Similarly, the Nigerian Police, led by Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs) Frank Mba and Daniel Pedro, have deployed around 35,000 officers to monitor the election.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, stated that covert operations were already underway, with plainclothes officers deployed to high-risk areas.
He also warned that there would be strict restrictions on movement, with only those in possession of a Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) allowed outside on election day.
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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has also airlifted sensitive election materials to Benin, in coordination with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The NSCDC, meanwhile, has deployed 6,433 personnel to safeguard public assets and maintain order during the exercise.
Addressing soldiers at the 4 Brigade Headquarters of the Nigerian Army, General Musa reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ dedication to securing the election, cautioning that no unauthorized groups, such as vigilantes or hunters, would be allowed to carry weapons on election day.
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He stressed that all movement would be restricted and no convoys would be permitted, with voters expected to walk to their polling units and return home peacefully.
Musa underscored the importance of the election, highlighting that the global community would be watching closely.
He expressed confidence in the security agencies’ ability to maintain order and prevent violence, adding that their goal was to make the Edo election a model for peaceful voting in Nigeria.
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Meanwhile, Benin City remained calm as security personnel in plainclothes were seen patrolling key areas, including dark spots, bars, and lounges, to ensure preparedness ahead of the election.
