The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 500 personnel from its Edo Command to Osun State to reinforce security arrangements for the August 15 governorship election.
The deployment was announced on Wednesday in Benin by the command’s spokesperson, Efosa Ogbebor, who said the officers were being sent as part of an inter-command operational support initiative.
According to Ogbebor, the move is intended to strengthen security across the state and help ensure a peaceful, free, fair and credible election.
He said the personnel would be responsible for protecting lives and property, securing electoral materials and critical infrastructure, as well as assisting other security agencies in maintaining law and order before, during and after the poll.
The spokesman explained that the officers were selected from different formations and units of the Edo Command and had undergone the necessary operational preparations ahead of their deployment.
He added that the personnel would take part in “Show of Force” exercises at strategic locations across Osun State. The exercises, he said, were designed to demonstrate the readiness of security agencies, discourage criminal activities and reassure residents of their presence.
The Edo NSCDC Commandant, Saidi Akintayo, directed the deployed personnel to carry out their duties with professionalism, discipline, dedication, neutrality and patriotism.
Akintayo urged the officers to remain vigilant, responsive and focused throughout the assignment, stressing that their actions must uphold the integrity and professionalism expected of the corps.
He also emphasised the need for political neutrality, adherence to operational directives and rules of engagement, respect for human rights and close cooperation with other security agencies.
The commandant warned the personnel against involvement in partisan politics, intimidation, harassment, abuse of authority or any other conduct that could undermine the neutrality and credibility of the NSCDC.
He further instructed them to maintain effective communication with other security agencies and respond promptly and professionally to emerging security challenges within their areas of responsibility.
Akintayo assured Osun residents that the NSCDC, in collaboration with other security agencies, would continue to support the electoral security framework and help create a safe environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
He also appealed to political parties, candidates, supporters, community and traditional leaders, as well as other stakeholders, to cooperate with security personnel and maintain peace throughout the electoral process.
The commandant urged all stakeholders to exercise their civic responsibilities responsibly and avoid actions that could threaten the peace, security or credibility of the election.