Priye Briggs
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced the deployment of 10,000 officers to Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the corps’ spokesperson, Kehinde Adeleke, the State Commandant, Igbalawole Sotiyo, made the disclosure during a strategic briefing with area commanders, divisional officers, and tactical unit heads at the command headquarters in Osogbo.
Mr. Sotiyo stated that the deployment was authorised by the Commandant-General, who will also personally oversee the operation. He charged officers to remain non-partisan, uphold strict neutrality, and carry out their responsibilities with utmost professionalism throughout the pre-election, election, and post-election periods.
The commandant stressed that the public’s trust in the NSCDC and the organisation’s reputation would hinge on the conduct of its personnel during the electoral process. He cautioned against any actions that could tarnish the corps’ image or jeopardise a peaceful election.
“I urge you not to put the name of the corps into disrepute. Be apolitical, maintain neutrality and respect fundamental human rights. Discharge your duties strictly in line with the corps’ standard operating procedures and other extant laws guiding election security operations,” he said.
Mr. Sotiyo also instructed area commanders to ensure that officers under them maintain discipline, professionalism, and readiness to respond to security concerns.
He described the NSCDC as a non-political and professional body tasked with safeguarding lives and property, protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, and helping to maintain law, order, and public peace.
The commandant further called on personnel to treat voters with courtesy and respect, noting that elections are a constitutional right. He added that the duty of security agencies is to create a safe and conducive atmosphere for citizens to vote freely without intimidation or fear.
He assured Osun residents that the corps would collaborate closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to guarantee a peaceful, secure, and credible election. He reaffirmed the command’s preparedness to deploy officers in a responsible and professional manner, and reiterated that neutrality and constitutional duties would not be compromised.
Mr. Sotiyo also appealed to members of the public to cooperate with security operatives and to report any suspicious activities through the proper channels. He gave assurance that the command would maintain vigilance before, during, and after the polls.