The Nigeria Police and Department of State Services (DSS) have advised the
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to postpone the
governorship election scheduled for Saturday, September 10, 2016 in Edo
state.
The two security agencies say the advise is based on credible intelligence
at its disposal which suggests that insurgents are planning to attack
vulnerable communities and soft targets, with high population during the
forthcoming Sallah celebrations between 12th and 13th September.
The agencies say Edo State is amongst the states being earmarked for these
planned attacks.
In a joint statement, the agencies reminded the public that similar
threats were issued during the May 1, Labour Day and Democracy Day, May
29, celebrations as well as the Eid-el-Fitr holidays in July, 2016.
The statement further adds, “The security agencies were able to decisively
disrupt and thwart the insurgents’ plan. In the same vein, while election
is important, the security agencies cannot allow the peace of the country
to be disrupted, and we will continue to remain vigilant and ensure
consolidation of the successes gained in the current counter-insurgency
fight.
“It is in regard of these that we are appealing to INEC which has the
legal duty to regulate elections in the country to consider the need for
possible postponement of the date of the election in Edo State, in order
to enable security agencies deal decisively with the envisaged terrorist
threats.
While the Police/DSS remain mindful of the inconveniences this request may
cause the various political stakeholders, it is our strong resolve that
security agencies need not be distracted from ensuring a peaceful and
secured Nigeria now and always.
Members of the public are hereby assured that the security agencies will
continue to remain focused and committed and are being enjoined to remain
vigilant. The attention of the security agencies should be drawn to any
observed unusual movements or actions by groups or individuals in their
neighborhoods”.