Guber Polls: CDS Warns Against Violence In Imo, Kogi, Bayelsa

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Musa Christopher, has warned political thugs and criminals to stay clear of Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo elections set to be held on 11 November 2023 or face military wrath.

He said the military will work to ensure free and fair elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States.

The CDS gave the warning when he received the Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar and the Minister of State for Defence Bello Mohammed Matawale during a familiarisation visit.

“We’re also prepared for the coming elections in the three states of Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa. I want to ensure that the election goes in fully democratically, without any fear or intimidation. We don’t want any violence. I want to appeal to all stakeholders that it does nobody any good if anybody is killed because we have to go and vote. So it is important that we all put hands on deck.

“We’ll make sure that the elections are, free and fair. they are peaceful and so the results can also bring out what people actually want. I want to once again welcome you to Defence Headquarters, Armed Forces of Nigeria, and to ensure and again state that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is fully behind the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“We will continue to defend the Constitution of Nigeria. Nobody, nobody will threaten us and go free. We’ll ensure that we’ll restore total peace in Nigeria.”

General Musa restated the commitment of the Nigerian Military to defend democracy.

LEADERSHIP reports that the electioneering period in the three states has been marred by violence and claims of attempted assassination of political opponents.

“I want to assure you that the Armed Forces is fully ready, fully prepared, fully committed to the task ahead. We know there have been a series of challenges within the sub-region where we have several coups all over. We want to assure Mr. President and to you all Sir, that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is fully committed to democracy. We will do whatever it takes to ensure that we protect our nascent democracy and for it to thrive and to also extend same to the sub-region because we know we have the capacity and we’re happy.”

He lauded the federal government’s determination, dedication, and commitment to ensuring that the armed forces are properly equipped, and properly trained to perform their constitutional role.

The CDS also disclosed that the federal government has allocated special medical funds for the treatment of wounded soldiers.

He said “Mr. President, we want to say thank you for the improved funding for the armed forces. We know the situation on the ground that the armed forces are doing the best they can, but we are limited due to the dearth of funding.

Also, there are special funds for medical. What we realize is the morale of our troops. They see how the injured are treated. If they’re not treated well, they will never want to be committed. But we are happy to see how they are doing and we are happy that more have been promised and more will be done.”

He also requested the federal government to hasten consideration of the proposed harmonized terms and conditions of service which is pending presidential approval.

LEADERSHIP reports that some of the officers raised concerns over the proposed harmonised terms and conditions of service which hampered its consideration.

The Minister of Defence Badaru assured the CDS of prompt consideration of requests and improved funding.

He commended the CDS for reducing the strength of terror groups across the country and urged him to completely wipe them out of the country.