The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Maj.-Gen. Christopher Musa has warned those planning to disrupt the Nov.11 governorship election in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi to stay off the states.
Musa said this when he spoke with newsmen shortly after the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) meeting in Abuja.
He assured the residents of Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi that they should not be apprehensive and pledged that the Armed Forces would extend full support to the police to ensure that the state elections are conducted in a free and fair manner.
He emphasized, “The Armed Forces, the police, and other security agencies will be on the ground. We aim to put an end to elections marred by violence, and we are committed to making a positive difference.
“We want every Nigerian to take pride in being a Nigerian and to know that elections are now conducted in a free and fair manner. We want all election winners to be proud of their victory, achieved without intimidation.”
Musa pointed out that a warning had already been issued to security personnel deployed for the elections, indicating that anyone misbehaving during the elections would face consequences.
He advised that the presence of security agencies in the three states should not concern law-abiding citizens but should serve as a deterrent to those with intentions to disrupt the election.
Also speaking, the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, warned that the police would not tolerate any violence or unrest during the upcoming elections in the states.
“We are aware of some individuals who are planning to cause trouble during the elections, and we are keeping a close watch on them. I urge them to stay away from these elections and refrain from causing any trouble. We are prepared to take whatever measures are necessary to maintain peace and order.
“I also appeal to the electorate to come out en manse to cast their votes during this election. We are committed to peaceful election and no going back,” he said.
