Soldiers In Anambra To Support Policemen, Not Politicians: Army

The Nigerian Army claims that its soldiers are in Anambra to assist police officers, not politicians, and that it remains apolitical whenever civil authorities ask it to provide internal security.

“Our duty in the state at this time is purely security-related and in support of the Nigeria Police, which are the lead security agency in the security architecture of electioneering,” said the army. “This is done in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure a safe and secure atmosphere for the peaceful conduct of elections. Our troops are guided by extant provisions of Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) Personnel Code of Conduct during elections and the provisions of Armed Forces Act CAP A20 LFN 2004.”

On Thursday, the army’s spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, issued a statement in response to allegations that soldiers were escorting buses carrying fake voters to Anambra.

No army soldiers escorted bogus voters into the state for Saturday’s governorship election, according to the army.

According to the statement, the buses in question transported INEC permanent and ad hoc workers.

The statement added, “We shall continue to operate along these lines to ensure that peace and security reign in our country. We will remain apolitical and very professional in deeds and conduct for the growth and development of democracy in Nigeria.”

The army advised “political gladiators” to refrain from dragging it into the “murky waters of politics,” assuring Nigerians it will remain resolute in carrying out its constitutional duties.

The army also urged Anambra residents not to panic, encouraging them to be law-abiding in supporting the joint security agencies to ensure peace and security in the state.

(NAN)