The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has assigned 800 operatives to provide security coverage for Saturday’s by-elections in the state.
In a statement released on Friday in Awka, State Commandant Maku Olatunde said the deployment is designed to reassure residents of the robust security measures in place for the Anambra South Senatorial and Onitsha North Assembly polls scheduled for August 16.
He explained that the operation will safeguard lives, properties, and key national assets, including Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) facilities across the state.
“I have authorised the deployment of 800 personnel, with additional officers on standby if required, to ensure the exercise is conducted smoothly,” Olatunde stated.
He added that the NSCDC, working in collaboration with other security agencies, will maintain a visible presence before, during, and after the polls through confidence-building patrols.
Area Commanders and Divisional Officers have been directed to post personnel to collation centres, polling stations, and wards in the affected local government areas. The security teams will also escort INEC materials and officials to their destinations to ensure voting takes place without intimidation or obstruction.
The Commandant urged political stakeholders to respect electoral guidelines and warned against any attempts to disrupt the process. He appealed to citizens to remain law-abiding throughout the polls and assured them of the corps’ readiness to respond swiftly to any security concerns.