The Nigerian military conveys intentAccording to General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, the president has given the military instructions to guarantee a free, fair, and legitimate governorship election in Edo State.

In advance of the governorship election on Saturday, Musa made this statement on Wednesday in Benin during a series of strategic discussions with participants, including Nigerian Army soldiers.

According to the Chief of Defence Staff, he was in Edo to reassure voters that the military will act professionally and work with INEC to guarantee a free and fair election.Lack of interest in reliable surveys

The army commander threatened to impose sanctions on anyone attempting to tamper with the poll during a meeting with senior military leaders.

He said that only the statutory security services would be permitted to attend the poll and cautioned people from using their weapons to threaten voters.

“I bring calm and the promise that we shall conduct ourselves honourably during the election from Abuja.

“A credible, fair, and free election is necessary because it suggests that anyone attempting anything less than a peaceful process will likely suffer the repercussions.

He continued, “I also want to reiterate that the armed forces will not accept any other individual carrying arms, even though the IGP has already stated this.”

Since they are not affiliated with the official agencies for elections, Musa cautioned members of the local security network or vigilantes to refrain from participating in election-related activities.

The members of the army stationed for the election were also forewarned by the Chief of Defence Staff not to give in.

Any staff member who gives in, in his opinion, will undoubtedly face the music.

Lt Gen Musa asked for cooperation from the security agencies at the meeting with the stakeholders, which included the police, INEC, and other security agencies.