LAGOS — Ahead of the 2027 General Elections, the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has organized a sensitization seminar to guide officers and soldiers on constitutional responsibilities and professional conduct during election duties. The programme was held on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at the NASFA Auditorium, Arakan Barracks, Apapa, with a focus on preparing personnel for lawful engagement before, during and after the polls.
Resource persons took participants through key topics, including “Democracy and National Security: The Role of the Nigerian Military in a Democratic Dispensation” by Col. Olusegun Oladuntoye (Rtd) and “The Soldier and the Ballot: Legal Pitfalls, Human Rights and Security Duties” by Mr. Murshadi Bello Yahaya. Special Guest of Honour, Maj. Gen. Adeyinka Adereti, Commander Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, stressed political neutrality, respect for fundamental rights, and strict adherence to constitutional provisions. He also reminded troops that the Nigeria Police Force remains the lead agency for election security. In his welcome address, GOC 81 Division, Maj. Gen. Adebayo Babalola, urged commanders to ensure personnel understand laws governing arrests, searches, use of force, and treatment of civilians, adding that ignorance of the law is not a defence for misconduct.
The seminar attracted troops from across the 81 Division Area of Responsibility and representatives of sister agencies. In attendance were the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, a representative of the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, the AIG Zone 2, Corps Commanders, heads of Army institutions in Lagos, Prof. Mahmoud Lawan, Dr. Wahab Shittu SAN, Yiaga Africa’s Director of Programmes, and several retired senior officers. The Division said the engagement is part of efforts to strengthen professionalism and ensure troops discharge their constitutional duties responsibly during electoral operations.
