The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 10,250 operatives to enhance security during the November 8 governorship election in Anambra.
The Commandant-General of NSCDC, Ahmed Audi, made the announcement in a statement by the National Public Relations Officer of the corps, Babawale Afolabi, on Thursday in Awka.
According to Mr Audi, the deployment is part of efforts to ensure a peaceful and credible election.
He noted that the operatives were drawn from the National Headquarters Tactical Squad and Zone 13 Headquarters in Awka.
“They also came from NSCDC commands in Anambra, Edo, Kogi, Imo, Abia, Delta, Rivers, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Bayelsa States,” he stated.
Mr Audi stressed the importance of coordination, cooperation and collaboration among all security agencies, led by the Nigeria police, to guarantee a violence-free poll.
He, however, warned desperate politicians against inciting statements and actions that could trigger violence before, during and after the exercise.
“All intelligence and undercover personnel are to proceed immediately to man identified flashpoints.
“Tactical forces must maintain round-the-clock patrols, while operatives deployed to polling units and collation centres are to strictly adhere to the posting order,” he said.
Mr Audi added that in line with the resolution of the Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, the NSCDC would work alongside other security agencies to monitor the election process.
He said the corps would also provide adequate protection for electoral materials and officials throughout the exercise.
“You are hereby directed to be professional in discharging your duties and to respect the fundamental human rights of citizens,” he said.
He assured the public of a peaceful, credible and hitch-free election.
(NAN)