ONNE (RIVERS) – The Nigerian Navy yesterday began series of proficiency drills on waterways and creeks as part of its preparation for the March 28 and April 11 elections.
Addressing newsmen during the exercise at Onne waterways in Rivers , the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, Port Harcourt, Commodore Godwin Ochai, said the exercise was aimed at showcasing the readiness of the navy for the electoral exercise.
He said the operation conformed with the navy’s mandate of providing maritime security for election officials, materials and the people to ensure the exercise was conducted peacefully in coastal communities.
“This operation is a confidence building exercise that seeks to instill confidence in sea fearers and the electorate so as to be able to exercise their democratic rights in the elections.
“Additionally, these drills are a demonstration of our readiness to assist the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with security provision on our waterways and creeks during the elections that is about to commence,’’ he said.
“ Our gun boats and personnel are strategically positioned on different parts of the waterways and creeks for rapid response when called upon,’’ he said.
He warned criminals and other undesirable elements on the waterways to stay away as the navy would fully exercise control on the waterways.
Ochai, who spoke through his Executive Officer, Capt. Sam Bura, expressed confidence that the navy, in collaboration with other security agencies, would ensure that the electorate in coastal areas voted for candidates of their choice.
He said the exercise and the 24-hour patrol of the coastal areas would continue before, during and after the elections.
