NSCDC Deploys 20,850 Personnel For By-elections

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 20,850 officers and men to provide security coverage during the by-elections scheduled for today’s by-election across 16 constituencies in 12 states.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the corps’ spokesperson, CSC Afolabi Babawale, who noted that the deployment is part of the Corps’ commitment to ensuring a peaceful, credible, and hitch-free electoral process.

The elections, to be conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on today, August 16, will fill two senatorial seats, five federal constituencies and nine state constituencies in states including Anambra, Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Ogun, Oyo, Taraba, Kogi, Kano, and Niger.

The statement explained that the Civil Defence boss, Prof. Abubakar Audi, had while speaking at its national headquarters in Abuja, reaffirmed the corps’ readiness to secure election materials, protect officials, and safeguard critical national assets and infrastructure during the exercise.

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

He emphasied that the NSCDC will work in close collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, the lead agency for election security, to ensure that the process is smooth and devoid of violence or disruption.

He encouraged eligible voters in the affected areas to turn out in large numbers and peacefully exercise their franchise, assuring them of adequate protection throughout the electoral process.

According to the CG, the massive deployment is a strategic move to complement the efforts of other security agencies and support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in conducting a successful election.

He added that all NSCDC personnel assigned to the elections have been properly briefed on rules of engagement, professionalism, and strict adherence to non-partisan conduct.

Prof. Audi also warned individuals or groups planning to disrupt the electoral process to steer clear, as the Corps is fully prepared to deal decisively with any acts of criminality or breach of peace.

The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order, protecting democratic institutions, and supporting Nigeria’s electoral integrity through effective and responsible security operations.