He also said the Independent National Electoral Commission’s facilities as well as citizens in the maritime environment must be prevented from attacks.
Gambo spoke during a meeting with Commanders in Abuja on Tuesday.
The naval chief said an intelligence brief had been given to the commanders to enable them effectively tackle the challenges ahead.
He said, “The election scheduled to hold in 11 days’ time, is staring at us. Therefore, adequate preparations are key to the overall outcome of the election. We are all aware of the dynamics of the security of our political environment and therefore continual reappraisal and adjustment where necessary particularly on strategies and tactics notwithstanding the intelligence brief received today. The brief should help us to speed up our efforts to the emerging challenges and spur us into action for a successful 2023 elections.
“You are to ensure that personnel embark on intelligence-led operations before, during, and after elections so that law-abiding Nigerians would have the confidence to vote. I urge you to optimise the use of maritime domain infrastructure at all the commands. Flag officer commanders are to ensure sustained surveillance as well as proactive measures being put in place to forestall the breakdown of law and order in their respective areas of responsibility. You are also to ensure all-round security in collaboration with Nigerian Police and others at all INEC facilities within your AOR. Ensure your morale is high.”
He also warned against any unprofessional conduct, directing commanders to closely monitor their men.
Gambo said, “All commanders must put an eye on their men and ensure all the instructions are to be adhered to. They must ensure adherence to the rule of engagement, standing operating procedures, and safety measures, you are to sustain and sensitise our officers to their professional conduct during the entire period of the elections. Unprofessional conduct or misdemeanor will not be tolerated. Partiality or actions that could be interpreted as partisan must be vehemently prohibited.”
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