The Police Service Commission (PSC) has praised the performance of security personnel during the Ondo State Governorship election held on Saturday, November 16, 2024. In an interim report released by the Commission’s Press and Public Relations Unit, the PSC described the election’s security arrangements as a positive progression in the country’s electoral process.

The Commission’s monitors reported that police officers arrived at voting centers promptly and effectively carried out their constitutional responsibility of securing the election environment. The officers were noted for their politeness, civility, and firmness in the discharge of their duties, contributing to the peaceful conduct of the election.

DIG Sylvester Abiodun Alabi, the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID), spearheaded the election’s security operations. He ensured seamless deployment of personnel, with Commissioners of Police overseeing activities in each Local Government Area. DIG Alabi was supported by senior officers, including AIG Benneth Igwe of Zone 7, Ondo State Commissioner of Police CP Abayomi Oladipo Peter, and CP Olatunji Disu from the Federal Capital Territory.

Despite the generally commendable security performance, the monitors observed isolated incidents of vote-buying at some polling units, a recurring challenge in Nigeria’s elections.

Civil society organizations, including the Civil Society Situation Room and CLEEN Foundation, lauded the PSC for its proactive oversight of police conduct during the election. The Situation Room also commended the credibility and efficiency of the overall security arrangements.

The PSC concluded that the security measures were “credible and above average,” reflecting significant improvements in election management and law enforcement collaboration.