The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the deployment of military troops in Ondo State ahead of the upcoming governorship election on November 16, 2024. The move is aimed at supporting the Nigeria Police Force to ensure a peaceful and secure voting process.

Maj-Gen. Buba Edward, Director of Defence Media Operations, explained that the troops’ presence would provide security to voters, allowing them to cast their ballots without fear of harassment or intimidation. “Troops are deployed in strength to assist the police and ensure a smooth off-cycle governorship election in Ondo State,” he said in a statement on Thursday.

The military’s involvement includes assisting in the transportation of sensitive electoral materials by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to support the Independent National Electoral Commission ().

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In addition to election security, Maj-Gen. Buba shared details of ongoing military operations across the country, including the elimination of 88 terrorists and the arrest of 228 suspects in the northern regions. The military is intensifying efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, with operations aimed at neutralizing threats and securing affected areas.

The military also reported significant success in tackling illegal oil theft, with troops recovering stolen crude oil valued at over N1 billion. In the South-South region, 13 crude oil cooking ovens and 20 dugout pits were destroyed, alongside the seizure of multiple boats, vehicles, and weapons.

Troops also seized an assortment of firearms, including 34 AK-47 rifles and over 2,300 rounds of ammunition, reinforcing their commitment to maintaining national security and stability.