• Sun. Feb 9th, 2025

Police Force Assures Security For Off-Cycle Elections In Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi States

The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of Inspector General ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, FCAI, has unveiled comprehensive security preparations and measures ahead of the off-cycle elections scheduled to take place in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States on November 11, 2023.

Speaking at a press briefing, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, emphasized the significance of these elections to Nigeria’s democracy. The Nigeria Police Force is fully committed to ensuring that these elections are conducted in a free, fair, secure, and credible manner.

To achieve this goal, the police force has strategically deployed personnel to the respective states. Officers and men deployed for election duty have undergone training on professionalism, neutrality, and best practices to maintain law and order, ensuring a conducive environment for all citizens to exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation.

The Inspector General of Police has reiterated the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force to the principles of free, fair, secure, and credible elections. To enhance supervision and transparency, Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs) have been deployed to oversee the security arrangements in the respective states. These DIGs will ensure that the elections meet the highest standards of credibility.

In a bid to bolster security, the Inspector General of Police has ordered the distribution of additional operational vehicles and equipment to the affected states, including water cannons, Armored Personnel Carriers, and gunboats for riverine areas. These measures are aimed at intensifying security arrangements.

To ensure a safe environment for the elections, the IGP has ordered a restriction of vehicular movement on election day from 12.01 am to 6 pm in the affected states. Exceptions are made for essential services such as INEC Officials, Accredited Electoral Observers, Ambulances responding to medical emergencies, firefighters, and the media.

A stern warning has been issued to all security aides and escorts, prohibiting them from accompanying their principals and politicians to polling booths and collation centers. The ban on unauthorized use of sirens, revolving lights, covered number plates, and tinted glasses remains in force.

The Inspector General of Police has urged residents and travelers in neighboring states to plan their movements accordingly to avoid any inconveniences during the election period.

The IGP emphasized the need for all electorates, party supporters, and leaders to shun unlawful activities such as vote buying, vote selling, hate speech, misinformation, and ballot box snatching. The Nigeria Police Force, along with other security agencies, will enforce the law to ensure that all violators face the consequences.

In case of emergencies or to report security concerns during the election, dedicated emergency contact numbers have been established for the Joint Operation Room in each state.

In conclusion, the Inspector General of Police assured the public of the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering commitment to protecting the electoral process. He urged the public to cooperate with the police and other security agencies, report any suspicious activities, and exercise their democratic rights peacefully, making the forthcoming elections a resounding success and a testament to the strength of Nigeria’s democracy.

The Nigeria Police Force is well-prepared to ensure a secure and credible electoral process in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States. These elections represent a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic journey, and all stakeholders are called upon to work together to ensure their success.

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