The Nigerian Army says its soldiers are in Anambra to support policemen, not politicians and remains apolitical whenever called upon by civil authorities 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.”

The army explained this in a statement by its spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Thursday, while reacting to an allegation that soldiers were escorting buses conveying fake voters to Anambra.

The army insisted that none of its soldiers had escorted fake voters into the state for Saturday’s governorship election.

The buses in question conveyed INEC permanent, and ad hoc staff said the statement.

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)