By Elizabeth Tanko
Kaduna, Nigeria – The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Division Nigerian Army / Commander Sector, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase, has assured the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the Division’s support as preparations gather pace for the upcoming national elections.
General Wase gave the assurance when the Administrative Secretary who acts as the State’s Acting Electoral Commissioner, Abba Yahaya, paid him a courtesy visit at the Division’s Headquarters in Kaduna.
Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 1 Division Nigerian Army, Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, in a statement on Thursday, said that the GOC pointed out that years of experience have helped the Nigerian Army master its role in supporting key civil institutions. He stressed that troops would focus on providing outer-perimeter security while keeping a professional and apolitical stance during the electoral process.
General Wase reassured the Commission that security measures have ensured all local government areas across the state are open and safe for the conduct of polls.
He also urged INEC to intensify public voter education and ensure ad-hoc staff clearly understand the specific roles of each security agency on the ground.
Earlier in the meeting, Abba Yahaya said his visit was part of his engagement with key stakeholders in the state.
He praised the good working relationship INEC enjoys with security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army, while appealing for even better collaboration moving forward.
The Acting Electoral Commissioner wrapped up by thanking the GOC for the warm reception and the Division’s dedication to support INEC during the election period and beyond.
