The Nigerian Army have warned against any form of electoral violence, including ballot box snatching, and have promised to deal decisively with anyone who attempts to disrupt the electoral process.
The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army/Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta Safe, Maj Gen Jamal Abdussalam, said that troops have been adequately briefed on the code of conduct and rules of engagement for the elections, and must conduct themselves in the most professional manner before, during, and after the poll.
“No stone would be left unturned to deal decisively with any individual or group, whose stock in trade is to cause mayhem or snatch ballot boxes during the elections.
“If the troublemakers feel they have two heads, they must be ready with the second head because the first head would surely be taken off.
“The era of snatching ballot boxes, stuffing them, and indeed any form of electoral violence are gone. “
“We must ensure that everywhere is safe and people are able to see sufficiently that we are fully on the ground to boost public confidence in the electoral process,” he said.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, also warned that the police will not tolerate electoral violence during the governorship election.
