The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, says the military is ready to enforce the presidential directives to deal decisively with perpetrators of electoral violence in the country.

Mr Musa said this on Thursday in Lokoja while addressing troops of ‘Operation Safe Conduct’ deployed in Kogi before the November 11 governorship election.

The defence chief said this, according to a statement by the director of defence information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Thursday in Abuja.

Mr Musa called for professionalism by the military during the forthcoming election and warned personnel against involvement in acts inimical to the smooth conduct of the election. He also charged the troops to ensure an enabling environment for a free and fair election.

The defence chief assured the people of Kogi of the resolve of the Armed Forces to safeguard lives and property at all times. While urging the citizens to report any misconduct by the military to the appropriate authorities, Mr Musa called on them to ensure cooperation with troops to enable them to exercise their constitutional mandate.

During a meeting with military commanders and heads of other security agencies in the state, the defence chief charged them to create an enabling environment to allow the people to exercise their civic responsibilities and elect the candidate of their choice.

He further warned against any compromise to subvert the election, adding that the army would monitor security personnel to ensure they perform their duties as expected.

According to him, there is an already standing court marshal to prosecute erring military personnel found wanting in the discharge of his duties during the election.

He urged all personnel to remain apolitical and ensure maximum security of lives and property before, during and after the election.

During a visit to Governor Yahaya Bello, represented by Deputy Governor Edward Onoja, Mr Musa said the military, in conjunction with other security agencies, was ready to ensure an enabling environment for the electorates to vote for the candidate of their choice.

He also warned the people to desist from violence and embrace peace and tolerance.

“The armed forces has zero tolerance for electoral violence and will ensure total compliance with the Presidential directives to deal decisively with violators,” he said.

(NAN)