NSCDC Deploys 20,850 Personnel for Saturday’s By-Elections Across 12 States

NSCDC Deploys 20,850 Personnel for Saturday’s By-Elections Across 12 States

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 20,850 officers and men ahead of Saturday’s by-elections scheduled to hold in 16 constituencies across 12 states of the federation.

The elections, to be conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on August 16, will fill two senatorial seats, five federal constituencies, and nine state constituencies.

Announcing the deployment in Abuja on Thursday, the Commandant General of the Corps, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar, said the measure was aimed at ensuring a hitch-free exercise in synergy with the Nigeria Police, the lead agency in election security.

“The Corps is fully prepared to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, secure election materials, safeguard officials, and monitor the entire election process,” Audi stated.

He urged eligible voters to turn out en masse and vote for candidates of their choice as part of their constitutional right, assuring that the elections would be conducted under adequate security.

“All state commandants in the affected states have been adequately briefed, with emphasis on professionalism, respect for citizens’ fundamental human rights, and commitment to ensuring a peaceful election,” he added.

The NSCDC boss further directed personnel to collaborate closely with other security agencies in Anambra, Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Ogun, Oyo, Taraba, Kogi, Kano, Niger, and all other states where the by-elections will be held.

INEC had earlier announced that the polls were necessary to fill vacant positions arising from court judgments and other circumstances.