Osun Poll: GOC Orders Troops to Be Professional, Stay Away from Polling Units

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, has directed troops deployed for security during the Osun State off-cycle governorship election to conduct themselves professionally and strictly adhere to the Code of Conduct for election duties.

Speaking on Friday while addressing troops at the Engineer Construction Command (ECC), Ede, Osun State, Mahmuda said the personnel would support the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the lead agency responsible for election security, under Operation SAFE CONDUCT.

He reminded the troops that their deployment was in line with the Nigerian Army’s constitutional responsibility of providing aid to civil authorities, stressing that they must remain impartial throughout the exercise.

The GOC explained that the soldiers would provide outer cordon security and only intervene when requested by the police, warning them to stay away from polling units unless called upon to respond to security threats.

Mahmuda said the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, expects the highest level of professionalism from the troops, urging them to avoid bias, political sentiments or any action capable of undermining the credibility of the election.

He also charged the personnel to remain disciplined, maintain a firm but civil posture, and refrain from harassing members of the public during the election.

According to him, all necessary logistics for the successful execution of Operation SAFE CONDUCT have been provided, and he urged the troops to justify the confidence reposed in them by carrying out their duties responsibly.

The GOC further appealed to residents of Osun State to have confidence in the security arrangements for the election, assuring them that the deployment of security personnel was solely to maintain law and order and ensure that eligible voters freely exercise their constitutional rights without intimidation.

Author
Recent Posts

Muftau Adewale

Ganiyu Muftau Adewale is a versatile Nigerian journalist with extensive experience in media, digital communication, and content development.

Passionate about impactful storytelling, he is committed to delivering accurate, engaging, and insightful reports across diverse areas of public interest.

Over the years, he has built a strong reputation for professionalism, creativity, and consistency in journalism. His expertise spans news reporting, media coverage, digital content creation, and strategic public communication, positioning him as a respected and influential voice in the media landscape.

Driven by a dedication to informing, educating, and connecting audiences, Adewale continues to contribute meaningfully to the growth of journalism and digital media in Nigeria.

Latest posts by Muftau Adewale (see all)