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INEC Chairman Urges Security Agencies to Be Vigilant, NSA Warns Troublemakers

As the countdown to the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States reaches 37 and 93 days respectively, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has urged security agencies to be vigilant and deal with any potential threat to the conduct of peaceful and transparent elections in both States.The INEC Chairman gave the charge today, Wednesday 14th August 2024, at the third Quarterly Consultative Meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), held at the INEC Headquarters, Abuja.While reminding the security agencies that electioneering campaigns by political parties were ongoing, Prof. Yakubu noted: “This is usually a time of concern and anxiety about security, as political parties canvass for votes.” He added: “A peaceful campaign often heralds a peaceful election. I urge political parties, candidates and their supporters to maintain the peace as we approach the election day and beyond. Party and campaign spokespersons should tone down the negative rhetoric.”Speaking directly to the ICCES members, the INEC Chairman said: “This is the time to be more vigilant. You should leave no stone unturned in dealing with any real or potential threat to the conduct of peaceful and transparent elections. Already, concerns have been expressed about the possibility of armed state and non-state actors disrupting the processes. “With just 37 days to the Edo State governorship election and 93 days before voters in Ondo State go to the polls, we should continue to work together to ensure that the training of election officials, logistics for the movement of personnel and materials, polling and collation activities are not disrupted in anyway.”Prof. Yakubu also harped on the need for security agents to play by the rules. His words: “All your personnel should continue to abide by the code and conduct and rules of engagement for security personnel on electoral duty.”On his part, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, warned that any attempt to undermine, interfere with, or disrupt the peaceful conduct of the polls would be viewed as an assault on the very essence of the country’s democratic value. Represented by the Director of Internal Security at the Office of the NSA, Hassan Abdullahi, Mallam Ribadu also warned that those planning to disrupt the elections should not mistake the current administration’s commitment to peace for weakness.  He said: “We want to reassure you, that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to peaceful election is unwavering. We will defend the integrity of the polls, using every lawful means at our disposal. Anyone attempting to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections will face the full force of the law. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert and ready to swiftly and decisively deal with anyone trying to undermine the polls.”The NSA enjoined well-meaning citizens in Edo State to support the security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities or threats to the authorities and assured them that their rights to vote peacefully would be protected.His words: “To our security forces and election officials, your dedication and integrity are crucial. As the guardians of our democracy, you must ensure that every ballot is protected, every voter feels safe, and the sanctity of the election is upheld.”The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Commissioner of Police, Mr Lanre Ogunlowo, also warned non-state actors who may be planning to disrupt the electoral process to have a rethinkHe said the Nigeria Police, which is saddled with the responsibility of coordinating other security agencies in election security was committed to working in synergy with other ICCES members to achieve peaceful elections in Edo and Ondo states.IGP Egbetokun assured the voting public in both states that security agencies are determined to provide a safe environment where votes will count.-INECwww.twitter.com/spyetv