The Nigerian armed forces have pledged to provide security at the off-cycle governorship elections holding in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa on Nov. 11.
Gen. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), made this promise on Monday in Owerri after a meeting with heads of security agencies in Imo.
He said that the troops would be neutral and professional to guarantee free, fair, credible and inclusive elections that Nigerians would be proud of.
He also lauded the Imo government for supporting the joint task force in the state, known as “Operation Udoka’’.
He added that President Bola Tinubu had no preferred candidate in the elections and urged military personnel to remain nonpartisan.
He appealed to Nigerians to have confidence in the security agencies and come out to vote on election day.
“Do not be afraid; security forces are here and we will ensure your safety. Come out and vote. It will be a free, fair and inclusive process.
“This is President Bola Tinubu’s first election since assuming office, and he does not want any room for malpractice.
“He wants the most popular candidate to win so the elections will be free, fair, credible and inclusive.
“Nigerians expect so much from us, and we will not let anyone down,” Mr Musa said.
Prof. Sylvia Agu, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Imo, thanked the security agencies for their commitment to a successful election in Imo.
She expressed optimism that with the deployment of adequate personnel, the election would be hitch-free.