NSCDC Commandant-General Abubakar Audi warns that violence, vandalism and interference will not be tolerated as security agencies prepare for Saturday’s governorship election.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has vowed to take decisive action against anyone who attempts to disrupt the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, as security agencies intensify preparations to ensure a peaceful and credible poll.

The NSCDC Commandant-General, Abubakar Audi, issued the warning during an operational visit to Osun State to assess security arrangements and strengthen coordination among security agencies and other stakeholders ahead of the election.

Audi said the priority of the security agencies was to protect lives and property while ensuring that voters are able to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.

“We don’t want any bloodshed. We will decisively deal with anyone who attempts to disrupt the electoral process,” he said.

During the visit, Audi met with Governor Ademola Adeleke, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and NSCDC personnel deployed across the state.

Adeleke commended the NSCDC for its role in protecting critical national assets but expressed concern over alleged security threats from political factions, which he said could be aimed at intimidating voters and undermining the electoral process.

At the INEC state headquarters, Audi assured the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oluwatoyin Babalola, that the corps would provide adequate protection for electoral materials and facilities.

He warned that anyone who engages in vandalism, destruction of electoral infrastructure or other forms of interference would face the consequences of the law.

Babalola, in response, commended the NSCDC for its support and cooperation with the electoral commission, stressing the importance of effective collaboration between INEC and security agencies in ensuring a smooth election.

Addressing officers at the NSCDC state command, Audi directed personnel to remain professional, respect the rule of law and avoid the excessive use of force in the discharge of their duties.

He also ordered the personnel to maintain close coordination with other security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, which he identified as the lead agency responsible for election security.

The NSCDC said its deployment was designed to protect voters, electoral personnel, materials and critical infrastructure while supporting the broader security architecture for the election.

The corps urged residents of Osun State to remain peaceful and law-abiding, assuring them that security personnel would work to create an environment where citizens can vote freely without intimidation or violence.

The August 15 governorship election is expected to attract heightened security attention, with authorities warning political actors, their supporters and other stakeholders against actions capable of threatening the peaceful conduct of the poll