Interior Minister assures adequate security ahead of February polls

The Minister of Interior, Mr Abba Moro, on Thursday assured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s commitment to ensure adequate security before, during and after the February elections.

Moro gave the assurance during a media parley with newsmen in Abuja.

He said that the provision of security would not only ensure safety of lives and property but would allow Nigerians to excercise their civic duties by casting their votes for candidates of their choice.

” The Nigerian Police have been sufficiently mobilised while the NSCDC have been orientated to do their civic job of ensuring tranquility before, during and after the elections.

” Some Nigerians are already making arrangements to move to their villages or stay away from where they presently reside. This anxiety as to whether peace will prevail in the country during the election is unwarranted.

” This is because this government is determined to ensure peace and security of Nigerians wherever they find themselves.

” Mr President would ensure that, like other elections in the past, adequate security is provided to ensure that Nigerians discharge their civic responsibilities.”

The minister said that the Federal Government would not hesitate to deploy materials to ensure peace even in the midst of insecurity in some parts of the country.

“The Federal Government is aware of its responsibilities and it is important to note that the electoral reforms have been one of the Transformation Agenda of the president.

“So far, this government has not left anyone in doubt in its determination to ensure free, fair, credible and transparent election.

” The election in February 2015 will not be an exception and I can assure you that inspite of the anxiety that trailed the campaigns, Nigerians do not have any course to worry as far as the provision of security for the excercise is concerned.”

Moro, therefore, called on every Nigerian to be law abiding, adding that while elections would come and go and governments would also start and end, the country remained for everyone.

The minister said that it was the responsibility of all Nigerians to maintain the integrity of the nation and democracy, adding that Nigerians must demonstrate the spirit of love which would be celebrated on Feb. 14 by shunning any form of violence. (NAN)