The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed 20,850 officers to provide security for Saturday’s by-elections holding in 16 constituencies across 12 states of the federation.
Commandant-General of the corps, Ahmed Audi, approved the deployment to safeguard lives, election materials and critical national infrastructure during the exercise.
The Independent National Electoral Commission is set to conduct the polls in Anambra, Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Ogun, Oyo, Taraba, Kogi, Kano, Niger and other affected states.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday by the Corps spokesperson, Babatunde Afolabi, Audi said the move was aimed at ensuring “a hitch-free and credible bye-election”.
“Our officers have been deployed to work in synergy with the Nigeria Police Force and other sister agencies to ensure effective security across all polling areas,” he said.
The NSCDC boss directed state commandants to maintain high professional standards while respecting the fundamental human rights of citizens during the election.
“You are to ensure maximum protection of voters, election officials and materials. Work closely with other agencies to guarantee a peaceful exercise,” Audi charged.
He urged eligible voters not to be discouraged from exercising their civic responsibilities. “We appeal to citizens to come out en masse and vote for candidates of their choice without fear or intimidation,” he added.