NB247
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has charged men of the Nigerian Army deployed for the Ondo State Governorship Election 2024 to be professional in the discharge of their duties.
Gen. Musa was at the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment on Thursday to inspect the state of readiness of the troops for the polls.
He commended the personnel for their efforts in maintaining peace and stability in Ondo State.
“Akure and Ondo State have remained very peaceful and calm,” he said.
“It shows that we have been working together as a team.”
Gen. Musa stressed the significance of unity among security forces in upholding peace for the benefit of all Nigerians.
He further urged the troops to remain professional, impartial, and vigilant, underscoring the critical role security agencies play in enabling a free and fair election.
“We all know the importance and relevance of elections,” he said.
“I want to appeal to all of us to put in our very best.
“In line with Nigeria’s constitutional structure for elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will be the lead agency, while the Nigerian Police will act as the primary security force, supported by the military and other security agencies.
“Once we work together, criminals cannot penetrate. Everybody is important. This is our country, and we each have a role to play.”
The defence chief reiterated that collaboration with INEC and the police would be crucial in preventing any disruptions by criminal elements.
He also highlighted the necessity of close monitoring and the importance of efficient communication and oversight, particularly over the troops on the ground.
“Our men, we must monitor what they do. Most of the time, the challenge comes from the men on the ground,” he noted.
“We must have a system-efficient monitoring team, and there will be communication where there are issues.
“Mr President wants me to come around and see how this one is, how the synergy is going. I’m very happy to go back and report that you guys are working very well and very efficient.”
The military will be part of the 8,500 supporting security agencies for the election. The Police personnel alone will number 34,757.