Chinedum Elekwachi
Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) has charged officers and men to adhere strictly to rules of engagement during the November 8 gubernatorial election in Anambra State.
State Commandant, Maku Olatunde gave the charge on Tuesday during a muster parade held at the State Command Headquarters in preparation for the election.
He informed personnel that the objective of the Corps and other security agencies is to provide an enabling environment and a level playing field for all players.
He emphasized that adequate security coverage would be provided in synergy with other sister agencies before, during, and after the election.
Underscoring importance of adhering to the Code of Conduct and Electoral Act for free, fair, inclusive, and credible election, Maku warned personnel against allowing personal interests to influence their actions.
He also warned them not to allow or be deceived by desperate politicians.
“You have been properly briefed through various trainings organized for this election on your expected roles and conduct during the election.
Adherence to code of conduct
“Let me remind you that the Corps expects you to put into use all that you have learned in strict adherence to the Code of Conduct for NSCDC personnel during election.
“Do not allow or be deceived by desperate politicians. You will have yourself to blame if you fall for their antics,” he cautioned.
The NSCDC boss directed all personnel to wear the NSCDC’s traditional blue combat uniform with red collar attire during the elections for easy identification.
He reaffirmed that the Corps is apolitical and that all activities of officers and men during, before, and after the election period must reflect this fact.
“For this special assignment, the Corps expects you to be apolitical, neutral, and professional in the discharge of your duties.
“Adequate NSCDC personnel, comprising conventional, plain-clothed Civil Defenders, tactical squads, and Special Forces, have been mobilized to provide the needed security for the election.
“We will provide adequate security for all INEC facilities, staff (permanent and ad-hoc), electoral materials (sensitive and non-sensitive).
He said the corps will also provide equal protection for the electorate, the press, accredited local and international observers, and other stakeholders involved in the election.
“We warn would-be miscreants, irredentists, political thugs, and other criminal elements who might be holding clandestine, diurnal, or nocturnal meetings to foment trouble with the motive to disrupt the election or scuttle the democratic process to desist from such acts, as the arm of the law will certainly catch up with them,” he added.
