Edo Polls: NSCDC mobilises 6,433 officers to ensure security

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has assured readiness for the Edo State governorship election.

Ahead of the poll, Commandant-General Ahmed Abubakar Audi has deployed 6,433 personnel to maintain security and order during the election, scheduled for September 21.

Audi highlighted the importance of remaining apolitical, acting professionally, and maintaining discipline while on duty.

The NSCDC plays a crucial role in safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure, and this deployment is a testament to their commitment.

The National Public Relations Officer of the Corps, CSC Afolabi Babawale, in a statement on Wednesday, disclosed that the NSCDC will deploy over 300 operatives each from the Ondo, Delta, Kogi, Osun, Imo, and Enugu Commands.

Quoting the Commandant-General, the statement added: “Our deployment for the Edo Governorship Election will cover all nooks and crannies, including flashpoints. Since this is not a general election, we have enough personnel to deploy across Wards, Polling Units, Collation Centres, INEC offices, and other areas.

“All personnel deployed are to work in synergy with other security agencies to ensure the peaceful conduct of the election. The Special Forces and Anti-Vandal Squad will ensure the protection of government facilities and infrastructure, with extra attention given to identified flashpoints and volatile areas.

“Notably, undercover officers have been deployed a few days before the election to maintain round-the-clock surveillance and provide up-to-date intelligence reports and real-time security assessments from all the 18 local governments in Edo State.

“Let me use this opportunity to urge politicians not to unnecessarily heat the polity. You are also advised to shun all forms of violence, thuggery, ballot box snatching, and any other form of electoral malpractice that could disrupt the peaceful conduct of the election.

“It is very important to warn in strong terms that parents and guardians should prevent their children from being used as instruments of violence or from being sponsored by desperate politicians to cause mayhem and electoral violence. Those arrested will be charged accordingly, in compliance with the extant laws,” the statement said.