By Our Correspondent
The countdown to the next election in Osun State has triggered heightened security activity, with the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Audi, leading a high-level operational visit to the state.
The purpose was clear: assess preparedness, boost morale, and ensure seamless coordination among security agencies and electoral stakeholders.
His first port of call was the office of the Chief Security Officer of the state, Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke. The meeting set the tone for inter-agency collaboration.
The CG also visited the Independent National Electoral Commission office and later addressed officers at the NSCDC Osun State Command headquarters.
In his address, Prof. Audi reaffirmed the Corps’ constitutional role in protecting lives and property during elections. He stressed that the NSCDC will work “tirelessly” to deliver a peaceful and credible poll.
The tone was firm. “We do not want any bloodshed,” he told officers and stakeholders. “We will decisively deal with anyone who attempts to disrupt the electoral process.”
Governor Adeleke welcomed the visit. He lauded the NSCDC for its consistent protection of critical national assets and infrastructure across Osun, he also raised a red flag. While Osun has a history of peaceful elections, he noted growing threats from political factions seeking to intimidate voters. Adeleke however urged the CG to deploy sufficient personnel and ensure that anyone planning violence is arrested before the election.
From the Government House, the CG moved to the INEC State Headquarters, where he was received by the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola. There, he emphasized the NSCDC’s mandate to secure electoral materials, offices, and other critical infrastructure.
He assured INEC of the Corps’ full operational support throughout the election period. He also issued a stern warning to potential vandals and troublemakers.
“The NSCDC is an integral part of election security. We are partners in this process, and anyone who attempts to vandalize assets or interfere with the election will be seriously dealt with,” he said.
Mrs. Babalola expressed appreciation for the visit. While describing the CG’s personal presence as a sign of strong leadership and commitment to the national assignment, she assured him that INEC remains committed to conducting a transparent, free, and fair election in Osun.
The final leg of the tour was at the NSCDC Osun Command headquarters. Here, the CG spoke directly to deployed officers.
His instructions were clear: be professional, avoid excessive force, and strictly obey rules of engagement. “Do not be trigger-happy,” he warned.
He also stressed synergy with other security agencies, acknowledging the Nigeria Police Force as the lead agency in election security.
Officers were advised to use wisdom, maintain communication with team leaders, and carry out their duties with integrity.
With these directives, the NSCDC signaled its readiness to play a central role in safeguarding democracy in Osun and ensuring that citizens can vote in a safe and secure environment.
