Oredola Adeola |
The Nigerian Armed Forces have reassured voters in the South- East geopolitical zone of the country, that the on-going Exercise EGWU EKE III (Exercise PYTHON DANCE III) and other similar exercises in various parts of country, are not targeted at any particular set of people or groups nor is it aimed at manipulating the electoral process.
- This was disclosed by Brigadier Gen. John Agim, Acting Director Defence Information, during a press conference held at the Defence Headquarter in Abuja on Thursday.
He however disclosed that the exercises are to ensure that all eligible citizens, irrespective of their religion or political inclinations, are given the opportunity to carry out their civic right to vote and be voted for in a peaceful environment devoid of violence and intimidation by criminal elements.
He said, “ These actions became necessary in view of threats from some unpatriotic individuals and dissident groups to stop people in some parts of the country from casting their votes on elections days. Let the public be re-assured that no persons or group of person have the right to deny or intimidate eligible voters from performing their constitutional obligations.
“ Therefore, all efforts of the military are to assist other security agencies to ensure that no Nigerian is disenfranchised. The Defence Headquarters wishes to sound a note of warning to any persons or group of person that tries to constitute themselves into nuisance and disturb public peace on election days. Anyone found disrupting public peace will be dealt with in accordance with the laws of the land.
He noted that the military Commanders have been tasked to ensure adequate security in their Areas of Responsibility, adding that they have also been asked to ensure the adherence to code of conduct and rules of engagement in the discharge of their duties.
The Defence Headquarter also re-affirmed its neutrality, impartiality , promising that the military woukd adhere strictly to professional code of conduct before, during and after the general election.
Brig.Gen Agim also reassured the public that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will carry out its constitutional duties with zero tolerance to unprofessional conduct. No military personnel are expected to fraternize with any political parties and associations.
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The Defence spokesman disclosed that military authorities have ordered the arrest of anyone in military uniform who is not on essential duty on election days. He added that any civilian caught in military uniform will be treated as a terrorist.
He also noted that the military is inundated with the allegations of illegal importation of military equipment and uniforms into the country which is being investigated.
The Defence Hqtr. also warned that no military personnel is expected to fraternize with any political parties and associations. It said, while military personnel have the right to perform their civic duty to vote as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, they must approach their polling units in mufti, devoid of any military accoutrement.
It warned that any military personnel who is not on essential duty that is found on military uniform on election day will be arrested and face the full wrath of military justice system.
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