Osun Election: NSCDC Deploys 10,000 Personnel, Warns Against Political Bias
Oluwatobi Adu 
OSOGBO, Nigeria – The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has warned its personnel against political interference, intimidation and human-rights violations ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election, stressing that the credibility of the poll will depend partly on the neutrality and professionalism of security personnel.
The warning came as the Osun State Command prepared for the deployment of 10,000 NSCDC personnel for election security operations under the direction of the Corps Commandant-General.
The state Commandant, Igbalawole Sotiyo, issued the directive on Monday while addressing area commanders, divisional officers and tactical commanders at the command headquarters in Osogbo.
Sotiyo told officers that they would be under close public scrutiny throughout the electoral process and warned that misconduct by personnel could undermine confidence in the election and damage the reputation of the corps.
‘Do not compromise neutrality’
The commandant directed officers to remain politically neutral and discharge their responsibilities strictly in accordance with the law and the NSCDC’s standard operating procedures.
“I urge you not to put the name of the corps into disrepute. Be apolitical, maintain neutrality and respect fundamental human rights,” he said.
He instructed commanders to ensure that personnel under their supervision remained disciplined, professional and prepared to respond appropriately to security challenges before, during and after voting.
According to him, the NSCDC is a non-partisan security organisation with responsibilities that include protecting lives and property, critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as maintaining public order.
Sotiyo also directed personnel to treat voters with civility and respect, stressing that participation in elections is a constitutional right.
He said security personnel must help create an environment where citizens can vote without fear, intimidation or undue pressure.
The commandant urged officers to avoid actions that could be interpreted as partisan or that could interfere with the rights of voters.
He further called for effective coordination among security agencies involved in the election to ensure rapid responses to emerging threats.
The Osun Command also encouraged residents to report suspicious activities and security concerns to the appropriate authorities.
Sotiyo said timely information from members of the public would assist security agencies in preventing incidents capable of disrupting the electoral process.
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