Osun Guber: Troops Advised to Avoid Polling Units

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, has issued a directive to troops deployed to ensure security during the upcoming Osun gubernatorial elections. He emphasized the need for professional conduct and urged all personnel to maintain their distance from polling units.

Importance of Neutrality

In a statement made during a briefing, General Mahmuda highlighted the critical role that the military plays in ensuring a peaceful electoral process. He stated, "Our presence is to support civil authorities in maintaining order, not to interfere with the voting process. It is essential that our troops remain neutral and do not influence the election in any manner."

Deployment of Troops

The deployment to Osun State comes amidst rising tensions and concerns about potential violence during the elections. The Nigerian Army has been tasked with providing security, particularly in areas that have historically experienced electoral disputes. General Mahmuda reassured the public that the troops are well-trained to handle such situations while respecting the rights of citizens.

Public Assurance

As part of the military's commitment to public safety, General Mahmuda called for community cooperation. He encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activity and assured them that the military is there to protect their rights to vote freely and without intimidation.

Historical Context

This directive follows a series of incidents in previous elections where military presence was either criticized or led to unrest. The Nigerian Army aims to learn from past experiences and ensure that their involvement in the electoral process this time is seen as a stabilizing force.

Conclusion

As the Osun gubernatorial elections approach, the emphasis on professional conduct by the military serves as a reminder of the importance of a fair and peaceful electoral process. The GOC's instructions to troops underscore the need for a balanced approach, ensuring that security is provided without encroaching on the democratic rights of the citizens.