The Nigeria Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin yesterday 14 February 2019 disclosed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and other security agencies have reviewed their strategies to ensure a violence free 2019 general elections in Nigeria. The collaboration and harmonization of strategies among the security outfits is centred on providing adequate security with a view to protect Nigerians and foreigners residing in the country before, during and after the General Elections from February to March 2019.
General Olonisakin who made the disclosure while briefing the press on the security arraignments for the 2019 General Election at the Defence Headquarters Abuja, stated that President Muhammadu Buhari is committed to a free, fair and credible election, just as the Armed Forces and other security agencies are equally committed to violence free elections. Speaking on a purported stay at home order issued by certain groups in parts of the country on Election day, the CDS urged the public to disregard the statement, saying that adequate measures are on ground to safeguard electoral materials. He implored all eligible Nigerians to come out to perform their civic responsibilities without fear of molestation.
He reaffirmed that the law enforcement agencies will remain apolitical throughout the election period. He added that the 2019 General Elections Code of Conduct for the AFN have been issued to Services and security personnel that will be deployed for security duties. Present at the media brief were the Service Chiefs, Acting Inspector General of Police, and Director General, Department of State Service. Others were the Director General, National Intelligence Agency and the Chief of Defence Intelligence.
