As Anambra State heads to the polls on Saturday, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has promised robust security arrangements and renewed its commitment to safeguarding critical national infrastructure throughout the electoral process.
Naijaonpoint reports that the assurance was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the NSCDC spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, on behalf of the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Audi.
Audi, represented by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Operations, Philip Ayuba, said personnel deployed for election duty had been extensively trained and cautioned to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
“Our presence at the polling stations is to protect, not to interfere,” the CG stated.
“We are there to create an atmosphere where voters feel safe, confident, and free to exercise their civic rights.”
He emphasised that officers on duty must remain neutral, respect human rights, and avoid any act capable of undermining the credibility of the election.
The NSCDC boss explained that the corps’ functions during elections go beyond crowd control or law enforcement. He noted that safeguarding national infrastructure remains central to ensuring a credible vote.
“Our mandate compels us to safeguard the assets that keep the nation running, because the credibility of any election depends not just on the safety of voters, but also on the protection of the systems that sustain it,” Audi said.
He listed electricity installations, communication lines, water supply systems and other essential public utilities as assets that must remain secure throughout the exercise.
According to the statement, the Commandant General cautioned officers to remain alert around Independent National Electoral Commission facilities, government structures and other sensitive areas.
Audi further warned that any form of misconduct, dereliction of duty or political involvement would attract strict disciplinary actions.
The NSCDC disclosed that it will work closely with the Nigeria Police Force, the Armed Forces and other security agencies through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security.
The collaboration, according to the CG, is aimed at ensuring a smooth, peaceful and transparent voting process across the state.
He appealed to voters to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperate with security operatives, assuring that their safety remained a top priority.
Naijaonpoint reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) commenced the distribution of sensitive materials to the 21 local government areas of Anambra State on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
The materials were moved from the Central Bank of Nigeria office in Awka under tight security.
INEC figures show that at least 2.7 million registered voters with Permanent Voter Cards are expected to participate in the election, which will be conducted across 5,718 polling units.
Sixteen political parties have fielded candidates for the governorship race, including two female contenders, in what analysts describe as a crucial test of Nigeria’s democratic strength and INEC’s readiness to deliver credible elections.
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