Nigeria’s Military Assures of a Free and Fair Election in Edo State
The Nigerian military has vowed to ensure a peaceful and credible governorship election in Edo State, amid concerns over violence and intimidation. Gen. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, made the pledge on Wednesday in Benin during strategic meetings with stakeholders, including troops of the Nigerian Army.
According to Gen. Musa, the military has the presidential mandate to guarantee a free, fair, and credible election. He emphasized that his presence in Edo State was to assure the electorate that the military would be professional and join forces with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prevent violence and intimidation.
Gen. Musa warned that anyone who attempts to disrupt the poll would face consequences. He specifically warned individuals against carrying arms to intimidate the electorate, stating that only statutory security agencies would be allowed for the election. “What I bring from Abuja is peace and assurance that we will act professionally during the election,” he said. “Election must be free, fair, and credible; for this implies that any other person with any other intention other than a peaceful election probably will face the consequences.”
The Chief of Defence Staff also cautioned members of local security networks or vigilantes against interfering with election duties, stating that they are not part of the statutory agencies for election. Gen. Musa further warned the personnel deployed for the election against compromising, stressing that anyone who does so will face the music.
At the meeting with stakeholders, including INEC, police, and other security agencies, Gen. Musa sought cooperation among the security agencies to ensure a smooth and peaceful election.
