Nigerian Army Issues Election Warning to Troops

By Joshua Samuel The Nigerian Army has cautioned its officers and soldiers not to engage in any illegal activity during the next general elections. During a visit to the Guards Brigade soldiers, Brigadier General Adamu Yari Yakubu, Director of Exams, Department of Army Standard and Evaluation (DASE), issued the warning. The Brigade Forward Operations Base in Kwali Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory was where the general and his staff were located (FCT). According to Captain Geoffrey Abakpa, Public Relations Officer Guards Brigade, Yakubu sent the soldiers to guarantee a safe and secure atmosphere for all voters. He praised the combined soldiers' level of readiness and added that "synergy is vital towards securing a hitch free election." Additionally, Yakubu cautioned Nigerians to act lawfully and emphasised that electoral violence would not be condoned. Lieutenant Colonel Kayode Akinsowon, Assistant Chief of Staff, represented Brigadier General Aminu Umar, Commander of the Guards Brigade. Aminu gave the assurance that the brigade was collaborating with the security services to maintain Abuja's security both during and after the elections. The united troops, he continued, have been made aware of electoral rules and the military code of conduct.