The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 10,000 personnel, including tactical squads and K9 units, to provide security during the forthcoming Ekiti State Governorship Election.
The deployment, approved by the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, is aimed at ensuring a peaceful, credible, and violence-free electoral process across the state.
According to a statement issued by the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant of Corps Babawale Afolabi, the personnel were drawn from several state commands, including Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Lagos, Kwara, Edo, Ogun, and Kogi States, as well as operational reinforcements from Zones 11 and 6.
The statement disclosed that the Commandant General had also ordered the deployment of the Corps’ elite tactical units to address any potential security threats before, during, and after the election.
The specialized units include the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (SIS), Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team, Female Strike Force, Mining Marshals, Special Force, Crack Squad, and the K9 Unit.
To coordinate the security operation, the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Operations, Ayuba Phillips, has been designated to represent the Commandant General and oversee the election security exercise in Ekiti State.
Speaking on the Corps’ preparedness, Audi said the NSCDC remained committed to safeguarding the electoral process and protecting voters, election officials, and residents throughout the exercise.
“Our mission in Ekiti State is to protect the integrity of the democratic process and guarantee the safety of every voter, election official, and citizen. We will not tolerate any form of electoral violence, thuggery, or disruption. Our specialized squads and tactical forces have been strategically positioned to maintain law and order,” he said.
The NSCDC noted that it is collaborating closely with other security agencies to provide comprehensive security coverage throughout the election period.
The Corps further directed all deployed personnel to uphold professionalism, neutrality, and civility in the discharge of their duties in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
It also urged residents of Ekiti State to participate peacefully in the election, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activities to security operatives.
