(DDM) — The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced the deployment of 10,250 operatives across Anambra State ahead of the November 8 governorship election, in a move aimed at ensuring a peaceful, credible, and violence-free poll.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the security operation forms part of a joint inter-agency effort to safeguard lives, protect electoral materials, and maintain law and order throughout the voting period.
Speaking at a press briefing in Awka, the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, stated that the Corps will work closely with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Nigerian Police Force, and the Armed Forces to ensure full security coverage before, during, and after the election.
He noted that special tactical units, including the Armed Squad, Counter-Terrorism Unit, and Intelligence and Surveillance Teams, have been strategically deployed to volatile flashpoints identified during pre-election security mapping.
According to Audi, the deployment is part of the Corps’ proactive strategy to deter political thuggery, ballot snatching, vote-buying, and any act capable of disrupting the electoral process.
He issued a stern warning to political actors and their supporters to desist from any form of violence or misconduct, emphasizing that the NSCDC will enforce the law without bias or compromise.
“We are fully prepared to defend democracy and protect the integrity of this election,” Audi said. “Any individual or group attempting to cause chaos will be apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
DDM learned that security agencies have increased patrols in Onitsha, Nnewi, Awka, and Ihiala, with checkpoints and surveillance drones monitoring movements ahead of election day.
Community leaders and youth organizations have also been urged to support peace initiatives and discourage violence in their respective areas.
Background checks by DDM show that previous elections in Anambra were occasionally marred by security breaches and voter intimidation, prompting heightened security measures this year.
Observers believe that the heavy deployment underscores the government’s determination to ensure the safety of voters and electoral officials, while also protecting sensitive materials in transit to polling units.
The INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Anambra, Dr. Queen Ezeagu, expressed confidence that with the multi-agency coordination, the upcoming election will be one of the most peaceful and transparent in the state’s history.
As the countdown to November 8 continues, security analysts have urged both citizens and political parties to embrace peace and civic responsibility, stressing that a secure environment remains vital for credible democratic outcomes in Anambra State.
