In a show of readiness to ensure a secure environment for the upcoming governorship election in Kogi State, the Nigerian Army has conducted a “Show of Force.”
In a statement released on Monday and signed by Lieutenant Colonel Charles Ekeocha, Acting Deputy Director of 2 Division Army Public Relations, it was noted that the exercise showcased a level of preparedness and dedication to guaranteeing a secure and safe environment for the upcoming off-cycle governorship election.
He stated that the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Bamidele Alabi, officially launched the Combined Force for Operation Safe Conduct in Kogi State through a demonstration of force.
The flag-off ceremony, which took place at the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Parade Ground, Chari Maigumeri Barracks in Lokoja, exemplified the military’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure electoral process in the state.
READ ALSO: IGP Deploys 220 Operational Vehicles, Equipment for Elections in Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi
According to him, the “Show of Force” sent a strong message to the public about the Army’s dedication to maintaining peace and security during the governorship election, emphasizing the importance of a secure environment for democratic processes.
With the election just around the corner, the Nigerian Army’s demonstration of preparedness underscores their pivotal role in safeguarding the democratic rights and safety of the citizens of Kogi State.
“It also emphasized the importance of Operation Safe Conduct in preserving the peace and security of the state during the electioneering period as well as ensuring that the people of Kogi State can exercise their rights to vote in a safe and secure environment,” he said.
He cited the General Officer Commanding (GOC) as encouraging citizens to collaborate with security agencies and promptly report any potentially destabilizing activities that could jeopardize the peaceful execution of the election in Kogi State, scheduled for Saturday, November 11, 2023.
According to the statement, the initiation of Operation Safe Conduct in Kogi State aimed to convey a resolute commitment from the security forces to guarantee a tranquil and equitable electoral process, free from violence.
It said, “With the combined force in place, residents and voters can look forward to exercising their civic duties in an atmosphere of safety and security.
“As the election day draws closer, the joint efforts of the security agencies in Kogi State, with the full support of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, will play a pivotal role in upholding the democratic values of the nation and preserving peace in the state.
“Citizens are therefore enjoined to come out en masse to exercise their rights and be assured that the Security Agencies will deal ruthlessly with anybody who wants to foment trouble or disrupt the electoral process.
“Equally, bandits, ballot box snatchers, and criminal elements who would want to disguise themselves as security agents are also warned to desist from such nefarious acts in their own interest as measures are in place to swiftly apprehend and deal decisively with them.”