The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced the deployment of more than 10,000 officers across Anambra State to maintain peace and ensure credible conduct during the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for November 8.
The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Audi, approved the large-scale deployment, which includes tactical teams from the Corps’ National Headquarters in Abuja.
According to the Corps’ spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, the operation aims to reinforce the Nigeria Police Force — the lead agency in election security — in safeguarding the process and preventing electoral violence.
“The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Prof. Ahmed Audi, has deployed over 10,000 operatives, including tactical forces from the Corps’ National Headquarters, to enhance security during the Anambra governorship election,” Babawale said.
He explained that the Commandant General had warned politicians and their supporters against actions capable of inciting unrest before, during, or after the polls. He also noted that the measure aligns with the resolutions of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security.
Okay News reports that the NSCDC operatives will monitor polling units, collation centres, and identified flashpoints across the state. They will also provide protection for election materials, officials, and voters to guarantee safety throughout the process.
“All intelligence and undercover personnel have been directed to move to their assigned areas immediately. Tactical forces are to begin 24-hour patrols, while officers deployed to polling stations must adhere strictly to the posting order,” Babawale added.
He revealed that the 10,250 personnel were drawn from the Corps’ National Headquarters Tactical Squad, Zone 13 in Awka, and from state commands in Anambra, Edo, Kogi, Imo, Abia, Delta, Rivers, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Bayelsa.
Babawale assured Anambra residents of the Corps’ readiness to guarantee a peaceful and transparent election.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force disclosed plans to deploy 45,000 officers across Anambra for the same purpose. It also stated that vigilante groups would not be permitted to operate during the exercise.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that about 2.8 million registered voters are expected to participate in the election. The Commission added that 11 out of 13 pre-election activities have been completed, with political campaigns ending on November 6 and voting set for November 8.
