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From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
The Chief of Defence Staff, Lt General Christopher Musa has warned political actors to play by the rules before, during and after the November 11 governorship election.
Musa who was in Bayelsa to monitor the security situation ahead of the election assured that the military is determined to deepen democracy.
He warned those who feel governing the state is their birthright and cautioned that it will not be business as usual because the military will deal decisively with anyone caught in any attempt to subvert the election.
General Musa, who assured of a level playing ground to all contestants, however, warned that the military would not condone any act of lawlessness during and after the election.
He warned all political actors to play the game by the rules and regulations, urging them not to see election as a do-or-die affair.
Diri who received Musa in Bayelsa State Government House, urged the military and other security agencies to evolve strategies that will guarantee a peaceful election as Bayelsa has been a red flag during elections.
He also assured the military of the state government’s support to make sure that the forthcoming governorship election was peaceful.
“First, I want to on behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, welcome you and your team. This election means so much to us, and we will need the security of this country to be on top of their game. As a government, we will support you to make sure that our elections are peaceful,” Diri said
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on Political Matters, High Chief Collins Cocodia has expressed worry over the silence of security agents on the inciting comments attributed to the APC governorship candidate, Great Joshua Maclver.
Cocodia, who described the comments as undemocratic and callous, added that it was a clear case of inciting violence and attacks on the electorate.
Speaking on a citizen-participatory programme, ‘Talk to Bayelsa’ on Glory FM 97.1, he expressed worry that such a comment could create panic and fear among Bayelsans who would want to exercise their franchise on election day.
Cocodia declared that he does not believe in the capacity of the State Commissioner of Police in addressing such issues, as the Police Commissioner, has oftentimes shown his lackadaisical attitude towards political threats or attacks perpetrated by parties, particularly, APC.
“Like I said in my last interview in this station, I said for the CP, I have completely lost faith concerning his neutrality in this business, if not, that young man should have been invited for interrogation. Also, the Brigade Commander and other security agencies should equally be concerned about the comments coming from such a person.”
He stressed that the PDP was committed to its course of peaceful campaigns, and convincing victory without rancour or violence, noting that the few defections witnessed would not affect the victory of the PDP.
