The Independent National Electoral Commission has charged security agencies to take quick action against perpetrators of electoral violence.
The INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, gave this charge at a meeting of the Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security on Friday.
Yakubu noted that the actions by the security agencies would aid a safe environment for the peaceful conduct of elections.
He stated, “The ultimate responsibility for election security lies with the security agencies.
“Our message to the security agencies is to take decisive action against perpetrators of electoral violence. This is the surest way to guarantee a safe environment for the peaceful conduct of elections and electoral activities.
“In doing so, security personnel on electoral duty should remain neutral and committed to the established professional code of conduct and rules of engagement.”
The INEC chairman noted that conducting the November 11 governorship polls in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo states would not be an easy task due to insecurity and geographical locations.
He, therefore, advised politicians to caution their candidates and supporters.
Yakubu stated, “The three states of Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi are not the easiest states in Nigeria to conduct elections.”
“The difficult geographical terrain and prevailing insecurity are compounded by negative mobilisation by political actors, especially since the commencement of the campaign in public on July 14, 2023.
“Our message to politicians is that they should caution their candidates and supporters. Violence and other undemocratic activities such as vote-buying, attacks on election officials and disruption of the electoral process must stop.”
In his remarks, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, said the security agencies were getting prepared ahead of the governorship elections.
