Imo State Guber Election: JTF Pledges to Remain Neutral 

As Imo State prepares for the November 11 governorship election, the Joint Task Force (JTF), working to provide security in the South-east region of the country, has promised to remain neutral and ensure a peaceful process.

The Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Mr Mohammed Barde, stated this after a meeting of the security agencies operating as part of the JTF, in Owerri, the state capital, on Wednesday.

The JTF is made up of officers of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Department of State Services, Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.

Barde, who spoke on behalf of the JTF, said the meeting was aimed at achieving synergy among the security agencies for a successful election in the state.

He reminded security agents, who would be on election duty, of the need to remain non-partisan, adding that “those who take sides with political parties will definitely be punished.”

He assured the electorate of a conducive atmosphere for the elections and appealed to politicians to cooperate with security arrangements and avoid the use of thugs during and after the election.

“There will be a safe, peaceful environment and zero tolerance for violence to enable voters participate in a hitch-free process,” he said.

He called on Imo State residents to exercise their franchise on the election day without fear of violence, harassment or intimidation.

The meeting was also attended by representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).