The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 10,250 operatives to Anambra State ahead of the November 8 governorship election to ensure a hitch-free and secure exercise.
The Corps’ spokesman, Afolabi Babawale, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, noting that the deployment followed the directive of the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to prevent any breach of peace during the election.
Babawale said the personnel deployed include Tactical Units from the Corps’ National Headquarters, strategically mobilised to strengthen security across identified flashpoints in the state.
Addressing State Commandants and Heads of Tactical Squads, the NSCDC Commandant General emphasized the importance of synergy among security agencies, particularly with the Nigeria Police Force, which is the lead agency in election security.
“With effective coordination, cooperation, and collaboration among security agencies, we can guarantee violence-free elections,” Audi stated.
The Commandant General cautioned politicians against making inflammatory remarks or engaging in acts capable of inciting violence before, during, or after the polls.
He directed intelligence and undercover operatives to immediately take positions at designated flashpoints, while tactical teams were instructed to maintain 24-hour patrols. Officers assigned to polling units and collation centres are to adhere strictly to the posting order, he added.
“Based on the resolution of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), the NSCDC, alongside other security agencies, will monitor the election process and ensure adequate protection for electoral materials and officials. You are to remain professional and respect citizens’ fundamental human rights while discharging your duties,” Audi charged.
According to the statement, the 10,250 operatives were drawn from the Corps’ National Headquarters Tactical Squad, Zone 13 Headquarters in Awka, and Commands in Edo, Kogi, Imo, Abia, Delta, Rivers, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Bayelsa States.
Prof. Audi assured residents of Anambra State of a peaceful and credible election, reaffirming the NSCDC’s readiness to provide robust security throughout the exercise.
