By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

The Nigerian Army has directed troops deployed for security duties during the forthcoming Osun State governorship election to maintain strict political neutrality and refrain from operating within polling units unless their intervention becomes absolutely necessary.

The directive was issued by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General Obinna Onubogu, during a security engagement with officers and soldiers participating in election-related operations across the state.

According to the Army, personnel are expected to conduct themselves professionally and in accordance with established rules of engagement, while working alongside other security agencies to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.

Onubogu emphasised that troops must remain impartial throughout the exercise and avoid any action capable of creating the impression of partisanship or undue influence on the electoral process.

He stated that soldiers are not expected to be stationed at polling units under normal circumstances, stressing that their deployment is primarily to provide support to civil authorities and respond to emergencies when requested through the appropriate channels.

The GOC warned officers and soldiers against engaging in activities that could compromise the integrity of the election, noting that any personnel found violating operational guidelines would face disciplinary measures.

He reiterated the Army’s commitment to supporting democratic governance by providing a secure environment in which eligible voters can exercise their civic responsibilities without fear, intimidation, or disruption.

The Army commander further directed troops to remain vigilant and responsive to potential security threats, including acts of violence, voter intimidation, ballot snatching, and other criminal activities that could undermine the electoral process.

He urged personnel to respect the rights of citizens and work closely with relevant security agencies to preserve law and order before, during, and after the election.

Onubogu also called on residents of Osun State to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies, assuring them that adequate measures had been put in place to safeguard lives, property, and critical electoral infrastructure.

The Army, he said, remains committed to professionalism, discipline, and constitutional responsibility in all election-related engagements, adding that its role is to support a peaceful atmosphere rather than interfere with the conduct of the polls.

The directive comes amid heightened political activities and growing public interest in the governorship election, which is expected to be keenly contested across the state.

Security analysts have described the Army’s stance as a significant confidence-building measure capable of strengthening public trust in the electoral process. They noted that keeping troops away from polling units except in exceptional situations aligns with democratic principles and helps reinforce the primary role of civil authorities in election management.

Observers also believe the directive could reduce tensions among political stakeholders and voters by assuring the public that security personnel will operate within the limits of their constitutional responsibilities while remaining prepared to respond swiftly to any threat to peace and public order.