Nigerian Army launches operation safe conduct ahead of Kogi gubernatorial election

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

In an official statement, Acting Deputy Director 2 Division Army Public Relations Lieutenant Colonel Charles Ekeocha said the flag-off ceremony, which took place at the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Parade Ground in Chari Maigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, highlights the Nigerian Army’s extensive preparations to support the electoral process in Kogi State and across Nigeria.

Operation Safe Conduct aims to preserve peace and security in Kogi State during the election period, ensuring that the people of the state can exercise their voting rights in a secure environment.

Major General Alabi urged citizens to collaborate with the security agencies and report any suspicious activities that may jeopardize the peaceful conduct of the election scheduled for Saturday, November 11, 2023.

He said this launch emphasized the security forces’ commitment to ensuring a violence-free and fair electoral process.

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

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

Ekeocha encouraged citizens to turn out in large numbers to exercise their rights and can rest assured that security agencies will take swift action against anyone attempting to disrupt the electoral process.

He said the warning extends to bandits, ballot box snatchers, and criminal elements posing as security agents, as measures are in place to apprehend and deal decisively with them.

Ekeocha reassure the public of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring a secure and peaceful election process in Kogi State.