The Forum of Spokespersons of Security and Response Agencies (FOSSRA) has pledged that it will remain professional, non-partisan and apolitical at all times, especially during the February 2015 general elections.

In a communiqué on its first meeting for 2015 held today in Abuja, the forum said its members will continue to ensure that press statements as well as official pronouncements of individual members and their organisations remain professional, non-partisan and apolitical at all times.

While stressing the need for efficient and effective inter-agency collaboration, members resolved not to be distracted by blackmail and intimidation in carrying out their statutory duties.

FOSSRA’s membership is drawn Defence Headquarters, Army, Airforce, Navy, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Prison Service (NPS), Federal Fire Service (FFS), Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The forum reassured law abiding Nigerian citizens of the preparedness of the security agencies to ensure safety of their lives and property before, during and after the forthcoming general elections while encouraging security consciousness among the citizens by being vigilant all the time.

The communiqué signed by FOSSRA Chairman, Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, and Secretary Emmanuel Okeh also emphasised the need for the public to report suspicious movements, objects or suspects to relevant authorities.

Concerning media practitioners, FOSSRA cautioned against undue sensationalism and unethical journalism. It emphasised the need for media executives, especially editors, to ensure fairness, balance and objectivity on their platforms.

The spokespersons called on politicians to avoid making reckless statements and inciting comments. They urged the cooperation of religious and community leaders in sensitising their subjects and followers on the need to shun acts of violence and thuggery and pledge to support and work with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure free, fair, credible and non-violent elections.

Equally in the communiqué is an appeal to Nigerians to always strive for the promotion of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, orderliness and brotherliness.

FOSSRA reassured Nigerians of its readiness to remain neutral, non-partisan and professional before, during and after the conduct of the forthcoming general elections.

“It is necessary to point out that all security agencies are currently undergoing training, monitoring and mobilising required logistics to guarantee a peaceful and successful general election,” the communiqué said.

•Photo shows FOSSRA members after today Abuja meeting.