Ensuring Security for Anambra State Governorship Election
As the Anambra State governorship election approaches on Saturday, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has pledged to provide maximum security throughout the electoral process. The organization has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, ensuring a safe environment for voters to exercise their rights.
In a statement released by the NSCDC spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, the Commandant General of the Corps, Prof. Ahmed Audi, emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order during the election. Speaking through the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Operations, Philip Ayuba, Audi highlighted that officers deployed for election duties have been thoroughly briefed to act professionally, neutrally, and with respect for human rights.
“Our presence at the polling stations is to protect, not to interfere. We are there to create an atmosphere where voters feel safe, confident, and free to exercise their civic rights,” Audi stated. He further explained that the NSCDC’s role extends beyond maintaining order; it includes safeguarding essential installations such as electricity, water supply, communication facilities, and other public utilities.
“Our mandate compels us to safeguard the assets that keep the nation running, because the credibility of any election depends not just on the safety of voters, but also on the protection of the systems that sustain it,” the CG added.
Audi reiterated the NSCDC’s dedication to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and public infrastructure while promoting peace and stability during national assignments. The statement urged officers to remain vigilant around Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) facilities, government buildings, and key locations. Any form of misconduct or political involvement would result in strict disciplinary action.
The NSCDC will continue to collaborate closely with the Nigeria Police Force, the Armed Forces, and other security agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES). This collaboration aims to ensure a smooth and transparent electoral process.
Audi also appealed to voters to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative with security personnel during the polls. He assured them that their safety and the protection of vital national assets remain top priorities for the NSCDC.
Key Details of the Election
INEC commenced the distribution of election materials to the 21 local government areas of Anambra State on Thursday. The materials were dispatched from the Central Bank of Nigeria office in Awka. This marks a crucial step in preparing for the upcoming election.
The election is expected to serve as a critical test of Nigeria’s democratic process and INEC’s capacity to conduct free and fair elections. According to official figures, 2.7 million voters with Permanent Voter Cards are expected to participate in the exercise. The election will be conducted in 5,718 polling units.
Sixteen political parties have fielded candidates in the governorship race, including two female contenders. This diversity highlights the significance of the election and the potential impact it could have on the state’s future.