Nigeria's Defence Intelligence chief, Lt. Gen. Akomaye Parker Undiandeye, has assured foreign defence advisers and attaches in Nigeria that the Federal Government is prepared to conduct peaceful and transparent elections in 2027. This assurance was given during the third-quarter operational briefing for foreign Defence Advisers and Defence Attaches in Abuja. Undiandeye dismissed allegations that the government was planning to militarise the 2027 general elections or undermine the electoral process.
Undiandeye described claims of militarisation as unfounded and urged foreign military representatives to help counter misinformation and disinformation circulating on social media about Nigeria's security situation and the forthcoming elections. He stressed that the government was willing and capable of conducting the 2027 elections peacefully and in accordance with internationally acceptable standards.
The Defence Intelligence chief emphasised that the military had no intention of taking over or controlling the electoral process, noting that its responsibility would be limited to providing security and logistical support during the elections. According to him, the Independent National Electoral Commission would remain responsible for conducting the electoral process, while the military would provide support for election personnel and materials where required.
Undiandeye also informed the foreign representatives that security forces had progressively improved the security situation across the country. He urged them to consider the realities they had witnessed during their travels across different parts of Nigeria when assessing reports about insecurity. The Defence Intelligence chief thanked the foreign defence representatives for their support and cooperation with Nigeria.
The partnerships between Nigeria and foreign countries had contributed to efforts to reduce the intensity of attacks and the number of civilians affected by violence. Undiandeye added that Nigeria remained committed to fulfilling its obligations under memoranda of understanding and security cooperation agreements with partner countries.
Undiandeye urged the foreign advisers and attaches to seek clarification from relevant authorities before relying on information circulating on social media. He encouraged them to ask questions and seek clarification whenever they received information that appeared doubtful. The Defence Intelligence chief stressed the importance of direct engagement and factual verification.
The Defence Intelligence Agency remains available to address security-related concerns and provide clarification where necessary. Undiandeye pledged to uphold truth and integrity in his dealings with the foreign defence representatives, including during difficult periods. He assured them that his doors were open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to clarify matters and help them understand the real situation.
Key points
- Nigeria's Defence Intelligence chief assures of peaceful 2027 elections
- Military has no intention of taking over electoral process
- Foreign defence advisers urged to verify reports before acting on them
