The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully transported sensitive electoral materials for the June 20 Ekiti State governorship election and several by-elections across the country, reinforcing preparations for what the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has described as a credible and peaceful exercise.
The operation, carried out between June 15 and 16 at the request of INEC, involved the deployment of the Air Force’s airlift assets to ensure the timely and secure delivery of election materials to designated locations ahead of the polls.
According to the Air Force, the mission covered the Ekiti governorship election as well as senatorial by-elections in Enugu North, Nasarawa North and Rivers South-East Senatorial Districts.
Materials were also delivered for House of Representatives by-elections in the Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency of Kano State and the Zuru/Shanga Federal Constituency of Kebbi State.
Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the exercise underscored the Air Force’s commitment to supporting democratic governance and safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
He noted that the strategic airlift operation ensured that sensitive materials reached their destinations within the stipulated timeframe, thereby enhancing INEC’s readiness for the polls.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended personnel involved in the mission and reiterated the Nigerian Air Force’s dedication to providing critical support to national institutions whenever called upon.
The development comes as INEC has assured stakeholders of its preparedness for the Ekiti governorship election, with over 1.05 million registered voters expected to participate in the exercise across the state’s 16 local government areas.
Security agencies have also intensified measures to guarantee a peaceful and transparent election.
