The Director of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency (North), Mr Raphael Odu,, has assured residents of Cross River North Senatorial District and the state at large of adequate security before, during, and after the forthcoming primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political partie.
APC primaries, scheduled to hold from May 15 to May 23, will cover the selection of candidates for the House of Representatives, Senate, State Houses of Assembly, Governorship, and Presidential elections.
Mr Odu stated that all necessary security arrangements had been put in place across the 54 wards in Cross River North to guarantee a peaceful and orderly exercise. He emphasised that the agency, in collaboration with other security outfits, remained fully committed to safeguarding lives and property throughout the period.
“We are working closely with all relevant security agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective security presence across the 54 wards of Cross River North and beyond. Residents and party members should be assured of their safety at all times,” he said.
The Director called for sustained collaboration among security agencies, noting that synergy and intelligence-sharing were critical to maintaining law and order, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
He further urged aspirants and stakeholders across all political parties to conduct themselves responsibly and in line with established guidelines, warning against actions capable of overheating the polity.
“Political actors must play by the rules. The pursuit of political ambition should not come at the expense of peace and security. We will not tolerate any form of conduct that could disrupt public order or endanger lives,” Mr Odu cautioned.
He also appealed to residents to remain law-abiding and to promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to ensuring a safe and peaceful environment across the state.
The Homeland Safety and Security Agency (North) reiterated its resolve to work with all stakeholders to deliver a hitch-free exercise and sustain peace across Cross River State.