Video And Photos: Soldiers Arrive Kogi State Ahead Of November 11 Governorship Election

Residents of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital were captured in a joyous mood on Monday, 6th November as they celebrated the arrival of soldiers ahead of the November 11 governorship elections in the state.

Naija News reports the soldiers are part of the security arrangements for Saturday’s election in order to ensure a peaceful, credible and fair election.

A statement by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col Charles Ekeocha however said what the residents witnessed was a show of force by the combined Force for Operation Safe Conduct in Kogi State.

He said Monday’s display was officially flagged off by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Bamidele Alabi.

According to the statement, “The flag Off which took place on 6 November 2023 at the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Parade Ground Chari Maigumeri Barracks Lokoja signposts the readiness and preparations the Nigerian Army has over the years put in place in support of other stakeholders in the electoral process in Nigeria and Kogi State in particular.

“It also emphasized the importance of Operation Safe Conduct in preserving the peace and security of the state during the electioneering period as well as ensuring that the people of Kogi State can exercise their rights to vote in a safe and secure environment.

“The GOC urged citizens to cooperate with the security agencies and report any suspicious activities that would undermine the peaceful conduct of the election, in Kogi state on
Saturday 11 Nov 23.

“The launch of Operation Safe Conduct in Kogi State sends a clear message that the security forces are fully prepared and committed to ensuring a violence-free and fair electoral process.

“With the combined force in place, residents and voters can look forward to exercising their civic duties in an atmosphere of safety and security.”

Recall that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, during a recent visit to Kogi, assured the state governor, Yahaya Bello of the readiness of the Armed Forces to ensure a peaceful, violent-free, and credible election in Kogi State.

The CDS assured all eligible voters of their safety during the election.

See the video.