Nigeria: Osun Poll - NSCDC Deploys 10,210 Personnel, Tactical Units

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has dispatched 10,210 personnel and specialized tactical units to Osun State in anticipation of the upcoming governorship election. Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Audi ordered the deployment of 10,000 personnel from ten neighboring State Commands, along with specialized formations, to bolster security across the region.

The deployment aims to protect voters, election officials, materials, observers, journalists, and residents from threats, intimidation, and violence. About 1,000 personnel from neighboring states would join forces with the Osun State Command. Specialized teams, including the Special Intelligence Squad, SWAT Unit, Female Squad, Mining Marshals, Strike Force, Crack Squad, and K9 Unit, will enhance intelligence gathering, crime prevention, protection, crowd control, and election-related security operations.

The Deputy Commandant General, Ayuba Phillip, and senior officers will relocate to Osun State to oversee the security efforts. NSCDC assured residents of their professionalism, impartiality, and respect for citizens' rights throughout the electoral process. The Corps warned against any attempts to disrupt the election and assured that any such activities would face legal consequences.

They appealed for peaceful conduct from all parties, candidates, supporters, and residents, urging residents to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security personnel, and to report suspicious activities to authorities. The NSCDC's operations would cover all 30 Local Government Areas of Osun State, in coordination with other security agencies.