By Jude Opara, Abuja
Ahead of the National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (AP.C) scheduled to take place between March 27 and 28, the Chairman of the Security Committee for the convention, General Christopher Musa (retd) has assured of adequate security and protection for all the delegates and stakeholders participating in the exercise.
Gen. Musa who spoke on Friday during a meeting of the Committee said the members were well abreast with the task before them which he noted is to ensure a hitch free convention, where everyone would be adequately secured.
The Minister of Defense further stated that given the size of the APC, it’s a known fact that many people, including government officials from across the country would be in attendance, hence the need to properly coordinate and discharge the requirements for a secure environment.
“For a party of the stature and national reach of the APC, our National Convention will attract thousands of delegates, party leaders, government officials, and observers from across the country and beyond. Such a gathering, while celebratory, also presents complex security considerations that must be carefully anticipated and professionally managed. It is therefore imperative that the Convention’s security architecture be robust, coordinated, and proactive.
“The establishment of this Committee underscores the party’s commitment to ensuring that the Convention is conducted in a secure, orderly, and peaceful environment. Our task is to develop and coordinate a comprehensive security framework that will guarantee the safety of delegates, party leaders, invited dignitaries, media representatives, and all other participants throughout the duration of the Convention”.
The former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) also outlines in specific terms the requirements from the Committee, even as he tasked them on the need to be proactive and not allow issues ro get out of hand before acting.
“Distinguished colleagues, the expectations placed on this Committee are very clear. We are required to conduct a thorough assessment of potential risks and vulnerabilities, design an integrated security plan, and ensure that all operational arrangements are effectively synchronized among the relevant agencies and stakeholders. Our approach must be preventive rather than reactive, ensuring that potential threats are identified and mitigated well in advance.
“Equally important is the need for effective coordination. The success of our assignment will depend largely on our ability to work closely with the various security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies responsible for maintaining law and order during the Convention. Each agency brings unique capabilities, experience, and resources to the table. Our responsibility as a committee is to ensure that these capabilities are properly harmonized within a unified operational framework.
“In carrying out our duties, professionalism, discipline, and mutual respect must guide our engagement with one another and with the institutions we will be working with. The Convention must reflect the highest standards of organization and security befitting a ruling party and a responsible national political institution. We must be proactive, meticulous, and collaborative in our planning and execution. The safety of participants and the integrity of the Convention depend on the quality of the work we undertake here.
“Let me also emphasize that time is of the essence. Our deliberations must be focused and our decisions timely so that all operational preparations can commence without delay. I am confident that with the wealth of experience represented in this Committee, we will deliver a security framework that ensures a smooth and successful Convention”, he concluded.
The Committee is made up of mainly top retired security operatives and professionals including former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Tukur Buratai, former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abubakar Adamu as well as Chairman of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, amongst others.
