As preparations intensify for the November 8, 2025 Anambra Governorship Election, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, minps, PhD, has reiterated the unwavering neutrality of the Nigeria Police Force, emphasizing that the Command’s sole mandate is to ensure a peaceful, credible, and secure electoral process across the state.
In continuation of his pre-election security engagements, CP Orutugu visited Aguata and Otuocha Area Commands to interact with officers, divisional heads, and key community stakeholders in a series of interactive sessions aimed at strengthening coordination and intelligence sharing ahead of the polls.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Commissioner made it clear that the Police have no interest in who wins or loses the forthcoming election, stressing that their responsibility is to guarantee the safety of voters, electoral officials, and materials before, during, and after the election.
“The Nigeria Police remains a neutral and non-partisan institution. We are not interested in who wins the election, but in ensuring a peaceful and credible process that reflects the will of the people,” CP Orutugu stated.
He charged Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Commanders to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and neutrality in the discharge of their duties. He also reminded officers to strictly adhere to the Electoral Act, Police Code of Conduct, and Standard Operational Procedures during election operations.
During the visit, the Commissioner also convened a stakeholders’ meeting involving Traditional Rulers, Religious Leaders, Town Union Executives, Youth and Women Organizations, Local Vigilante Groups, and Community Security Structures. Discussions focused on strengthening local collaboration, preventing voter intimidation, curbing electoral violence, and fostering peaceful participation across communities.
While commending the residents of Otuocha for maintaining relative peace and resolving disputes through dialogue and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), CP Orutugu encouraged communities to establish internal peace committees to manage civil land-related issues without resorting to police intervention.
He assured residents of adequate deployment of personnel, intelligence monitoring, and rapid response units throughout the election period, reaffirming that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
“We urge Ndi Anambra to go about their lawful political activities without fear. The Police Command is fully prepared to secure the electoral process and sustain the peace in our communities,” he added.
The Commissioner also cautioned political actors, supporters, and community leaders against making inflammatory statements or engaging in actions capable of inciting violence or disrupting public order.
He emphasized that the peace, unity, and collective stability of Anambra State must remain above partisan interests, calling on all stakeholders to join hands with the Police to achieve a peaceful and credible governorship election.