By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Defece Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) is ready to enforce the presidential directives to deal decisively with perpetrators of electoral violence in the country.
Musa said this on Thursday in Lokoja while addressng troops of Operation Safe Conduct deployed in Kogi ahead of the Nov. 11 Governorship Election.
This contained in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Thursday in Abuja.
The CDS called for absolute profesionalism by the military during the forth coming election and warned personnel against involvement in acts inimical to the smooth conduct of the election.
He also charged the troops to ensure an enabling environment to allow for free and fair election.
Musa assured the people of Kogi of the resolve of the Armed Forces to safeguard lives and property at all times.
While urging the citizens to report any wrong doing by the military to the appropriate authorities, Musa called on them to ensure cooperation with troops to enable them to exercise their constitutional mandate.
During a meeting with Military Commanders and heads of other security agencies in the state, the CDS charged them to create enabling environment to allow the people to exercise their civic responsibilities and elect the candidate of their choice.
He further warned against any compromise to subvert the election, adding that security personnel would be monitored to ensure they perform their duties as expected.
According to him, there is an already standing Court Marshal to prosecute erring military personnel found wanting in the discharge of his duties during the election.
He enjoined all personnel to remain apolitical and ensure maximum security of lives and property before, during and after the election.
During a visit to Gov. Yahaya Bello, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Edward Onoja, the CDS said the military in conjunction with other security agencies was ready to ensure an enabling environment for the electorates to vote for candidate of their choice.
He also warned the people to desist from violence, embrace peace and tolerance.
“The Armed Forces has zero tolerance for electoral violence and will ensure total compliance with the Presidential directives to deal decisively with violators,” he said.
The CDS also condoled the people and government of Kogi over the demise of the Ohionoyi of Ebiraland Alhaji Ado Ibrahim. NAN
