The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Yusuf Buratai, has said those seeking to undermine the 2019 general elections would be treated as enemies of Nigeria.
Buratai spoke at the Army Headquarters, in Abuja, during a meeting with Principal Staff Officers (PSOs), General Officers Commanding (GOCs) and Directors.
He said: “The unity of Nigeria is not negotiable, hence those who seek to undermine our democracy by interfering in our electoral process must be seen as enemies of Nigeria and dealt with appropriately.
“The act of electoral thuggery, snatching of ballot boxes, illegal possession of elections materials and similar crimes are intended to mar an election and create deliberate avenues for post-election violence and mayhem.
“Such actions can also become more damaging when they are widespread, leading to destruction of lives and property,” Buratai added.
He said incidences of this nature in previous elections were planned and orchestrated by politicians and the Army had hitherto, been very cautious in its approach.
Buratai said: “However, this time around, the Army will adopt a proactive posture that ensures that similar incidences do not even arise.”
He said commanders must work with all stakeholders, interest groups and agencies to avert any act by any individual, groups or entities that seek to undermine the democratic process.
