NSCDC deploys 10,000 personnel for Osun governorship election

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 10,000 personnel across 10 state commands to bolster security for the upcoming Osun State governorship election. Commandant-General Prof. Ahmed Audi announced the deployment, which will begin on Monday, as part of efforts to maintain a peaceful and secure electoral process.

The personnel, consisting of both uniformed and undercover officers, are being drawn from various state commands including Oyo, Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, Lagos, Kwara, Edo, Kogi, Delta, and the Federal Capital Territory, with approximately 1,000 officers from each command. Audi emphasized that the deployment would augment existing security forces in Osun State and ensure protection for voters, electoral officials, observers, journalists, and residents in all 30 local government areas.

The NSCDC will also utilize specialized units, such as the Commandant-General's Special Intelligence Squad, Special Weapons and Tactics Unit, Specialized Female Squad, Mining Marshals, Special Strike Force, Crack Squad, and K9 Unit, to assist in intelligence gathering, crime prevention, critical asset protection, crowd control, and other election-related security operations.

Deputy Commandant-General Ayuba Phillip, along with designated Assistant Commandant-Generals and senior officers, will relocate to Osun State to oversee the corps' election security operations. The NSCDC has briefed its personnel to remain professional, neutral, and respectful of citizens' rights during the election. Audacious warnings were issued to political troublemakers and those seeking to disrupt the election, with assurances that any such actions would face legal consequences.

The NSCDC urged all political parties, candidates, supporters, and residents to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and allow the democratic process to unfold. The deployment follows heightened security preparations for the August 15 governorship election, with the Nigeria Police Force earlier announcing the mobilization of 15,000 personnel to the state.