By Bukola Olamona
In preparation for the November 16 Ondo governorship election, Dr Ahmed Audi, the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has ordered the deployment of 6,000 officers to ensure security throughout the process.
He assured residents of the corps’ readiness to deliver a free, fair, and credible election.
Dr Audi in a statement issued by CSC Babawale Afolabi, National Public Relations officer, revealed that NSCDC personnel from nearby states, including Ekiti, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Lagos, Edo, and Delta, would support the effort, reinforcing security coverage in Ondo State’s 18 local government areas, 203 wards, and 3,933 polling units.
“In this election, the NSCDC have vital roles to play by ensuring the protection of all Critical National Assets and Infrastructure across the State; providing security for INEC officials and ad hoc staff, safeguarding the movements of election materials and its distribution both on land and in the coastal towns and overall monitoring of election process till the results are announced,” Audi explained.
The Commandant further detailed that the deployed personnel comprise specialised units, including the Special Female Squad, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Agro Rangers, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives (CBRNE) Unit, K-9 Unit, Marine Unit, Election Monitoring Unit, and more. This robust force aims to counter any form of political violence and prevent election-related disturbances.
“There are comprehensive and strategic measures already put in place which are targeted towards forestalling all forms of political violence and thuggery before, during and after the elections,” he stated.
He emphasized collaboration with the Nigeria Police, designated as the lead agency for election security, noting that a united approach is essential to maintaining peace and order.
Audi urged his officers to uphold professionalism and discipline in their interactions with the public and other security agencies.
The NSCDC chief also warned against vandalism and election-related violence, urging parents to caution their children against involvement in political thuggery.
He reassured voters of the NSCDC’s commitment to protecting their rights while promising strict action against those who might disrupt the election.