… insists local state security outfits not allowed to operate during polls
By Emmanuel Obisue
Nigeria’s security agencies have given strong warnings to groups or individuals that intend to disrupt the electoral process across the country during the February 25 Presidential and National Assembly polls.
At a joint press briefing held at the Nigerian Defence Headquarters, Abuja on Thursday, the Nigerian Military, Department of State Services, DSS, and the Nigeria Police Force, assured that all mechanisms have been put in place for a safe and secure election.
While assuring electorates to go out confidently to exercise their franchise, Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau insisted that elections will be held across the 36 states of the country, including the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
Gusau who represented the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, commended security personnel and urged them to remain vigilant, apolitical, and steadfast in discharging their constitutional responsibilities.
“I want to use this opportunity to re-echo the warning of the CDS to undesirable elements, that the military and other security agencies are ready and will subvert any threats to peace and tranquility. Strong force will be applied to those that want to breach of public peace during he general election”, he said.
Similarly, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi informed that the Inspector General of Police has ordered restriction of movement on February 25 from 12am to 6pm.
Speaking on threat issues in the Southeast region, he blamed governors of the region for not taking “the bull by the horn”. “Most of the incidents in the Southeast are deliberately carried out to instil fear. But we will not fold our hands and watch,” he added.
Adejobi re-echoed the stance that local security outfits across the states, are prohibited from taking part in securing the electoral process.
“In furtherance of its collaborative efforts, the Service has engaged stakeholders including the Media, Faith and Community Based Organisations, Civil Society and others.
“While this is part of its non-kinetic strategies to maintain peace and public order before, during and after the elections, it will also not rest on its oars to identify and disrupt subversive tendencies; be they terrorists, kidnappers, hostage takers or outlawed violent separatist agitators and their likes.
“In discharging its mandate, the DSS will be fair, objective, transparent and accountable but like the President has directed, “Firm and Courageous”. It will abide by the rule of law and comply with the tenets of democracy. The Service will be decisive in the implementation of its responsibilities and this will be done without let or hindrance,” Peter Afunanya, DSS Spokesman added.
