The Election Security Support Centre (ESSC) of CLEEN Foundation has observed that about 12% of the security officers deployed to the poling units were observed to be somewhat partial and partial.
The Executive Director, Dr Benson Olugbuo while briefing newsmen in Abuja said this gives credence to incidents of complicity of security personnel on election duty in some polling units.
According to him, 39% of the polling units had three or more security personnel to provide safety and security for voters and voting materials and maintenance of law and order within the voting areas.
“Furthermore, 31% of the polling units had just two security officers deployed to provide security to voters, observers and electoral materials as well as maintenance of law and order within the voting area.
“ Our observers also noted that some poling units were grossly under-policed. This is evident from our observers who observed that 27% of the polling units had just one police officer.
“Despite the perceived lopsidedness that characterized the deployment of security officers, 66% of the observers adjudged that the number of security officials present in the polling units were adequate or very adequate at all times.
He said the foundation observed the deployment of the Armed Forces during the 2019 general elections and setting up of Situation Room by the military.
“Generally, their presence did not interfere with the conduct of the election in most states of the federation. However, CLEEN Foundation received reports of incidents involving the military and political thugs in Rivers State.
“In another report, a detachment of military personnel obstructed passage of electorates into their polling units. These incidents continue to raise the debate on the deployment of the military during election.
He said election remains a key requirement for social, political and economic development in Nigeria. Since the return to civil rule in Nigeria, elections have been keenly contested.
He commended the resilience and commitment of Nigerians who exhibited commitment and patience, despite difficulties experienced before and during the voting process.
“Majority of the electorates demonstrated commitment to orderly and peaceful elections in Nigeria which is highly commended.
“The resilience showed by voters despite glaring challenges is a positive development in our quest to consolidate democracy in Nigeria,” he said.
