2023 and Enhancing ‘Communication Security’ for Peaceful Election
In any democratic society, elections are the backbone of the country’s political system. The electoral process guarantees that citizens’ voices are heard. Elections do not, however, come without difficulties.
Hence, communication security is a crucial aspect that must be safeguarded during elections, especially by security operatives.
Without proper communication security measures in place, there is a risk of tampering with the electoral process, manipulation of voting results, leaking of sensitive information, disruption of electoral processes, and even the
misguided operation of social media usage, which can hinder and affects the believability of the citizens toward the exercise.
A recent outcry by Nigerians, knocked the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for identifying with a post that criticized the candidacy of Labour Party’s presidential flag bearer, Peter Obi, on Twitter.
Meanwhile, it is heartwarming to note that the Nigerian military in collaboration with other sister security agencies has been working relentlessly to ensure the safe conduct of the 2023 general elections.
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Recently, the Chief of Naval Staff, CNS, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, directed Senior Officers and Commanders of the Nigerian Navy to ensure their men safeguard communication security, while adhering to relevant social media regulations.
“This is necessary to forestall the abuse of the social media by our Naval personnel,” he said.
Gambo, during a sensitization meeting organized by him for Principal Officers, and Unit Commanders of the Navy, ahead of the 2023 polls.
The CNS, also reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to assist other security agencies to provide a conducive atmosphere prior, during and after the elections.
The Naval support will be essential in the area of distribution of election materials and safeguarding vulnerable areas, search and rescue, dispute resolution in communities, restriction of unlawful movement, and other lawful tasks within the riverine communities.
Gambo also ordered NN senior officers at all levels to ensure adherence to rule of engagement and standing operational procedures, including safety measures.
The CNS also urged them to sustain awareness and sensitisation of personnel on professional conduct during the entire period.
Admiral Gambo warned that partiality or actions that could be interpreted as the Nigerian Navy being partisan will not be condoned.
He also disclosed that their men will soon mount aggressive patrols before, during and after the polls, so that law-abiding citizens will gather the confidence to go about their businesses.
Kabir Abdulsalam writes from Abuja, can be reach at [email protected].
