Osun Guber: NSCDC deploys 10,000 personnel, urges neutrality

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Osun State has deployed 10,000 personnel for the upcoming governorship election on Saturday. The command emphasized that these personnel must maintain neutrality and professionalism throughout the electoral process. At a meeting on Sunday, the Osun State NSCDC Commandant, Igbalawole Sotiyo, instructed the personnel to avoid political involvement, uphold neutrality, and respect fundamental human rights.

The command's top brass, led by the Commandant General Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, will oversee the deployment.

Sotiyo stressed that the NSCDC personnel's conduct would significantly impact public confidence in the Corps and the credibility of the security operation. He urged the personnel to remain disciplined, professional, and responsive to the security needs of residents during the election period. The NSCDC is described as a "professional and non-partisan security agency responsible for protecting lives and property, critical national assets and infrastructure, while supporting the maintenance of peace and public order."

The commandant requested that personnel treat voters with civility and respect, emphasizing that the governorship election is a constitutional exercise and that security agencies must provide a safe environment for citizens to vote without fear or intimidation. Sotiyo assured the public that the NSCDC would collaborate with other security agencies and stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, secure, and credible electoral process. He directed commanders to maintain effective communication and ensure proper briefing of personnel.

The Osun Gubernatorial Election is a crucial event, and the NSCDC's deployment of 10,000 personnel reflects the importance placed on maintaining security and a fair electoral process. The command's emphasis on neutrality and professionalism is a clear message to the public, ensuring that the electoral process remains free from political interference and that the rights of citizens are protected.