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In a remarkable display of readiness and commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for the upcoming off-cycle gubernatorial election, the Combined Force for Operation Safe Conduct in Kogi State was officially flagged off with a Show of Force by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Bamidele Alabi.

The Acting Deputy Director,
2 Division Army Public Relations, Charles Ekeocha, a Lieutenant Colonel, in a statement said that the flag Off which took place on 6 November 2023 at the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army Parade Ground, Chari Maigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, signposts the readiness and preparations the Nigerian Army has over the years put in place in support of other stakeholders in the electoral process in Nigeria and Kogi State in particular.

The statement noted that it also “emphasized the importance of Operation Safe Conduct in preserving the peace and security of the state during the electioneering period as well as ensuring that the people of Kogi State can exercise their rights to vote in a safe and secure environment.

“The GOC urged citizens to cooperate with the security agencies and report any suspicious activities that would undermine the peaceful conduct of the election, in Kogi state on
Saturday 11 Nov 23.

“The launch of Operation Safe Conduct in Kogi State sends a clear message that the security forces are fully prepared and committed to ensuring a violence-free and fair electoral process.

“With the combined force in place, residents and voters can look forward to exercising their civic duties in an atmosphere of safety and security.

“As the election day draws closer, the joint efforts of the security agencies in Kogi State with the full support of the Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja will play a pivotal role in upholding the democratic values of the nation and preserving the peace in the state.

“Citizens are therefore enjoined to come out en masse to exercise their rights and be assured that the Security Agencies will deal ruthlessly with anybody who wants to foment trouble or disrupt the electoral process”, Deputy Director, 2 Division Nigerian Army said.

Equally, the Army said “bandits, ballot box snatchers, and criminal elements who would want to disguise themselves as security agents are also warned to desist from such nefarious acts in their own interest as measures are in place to swiftly apprehend and deal decisively with them.”