By Christopher Oji
The Inspector General of Police(IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun (IGP) has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups who may contemplate disrupting the Imo State governorship election.
He noted that officers deployed for election duty have been charged to take decisive action against anyone found engaging in unlawful activities that undermine the integrity of the electoral process. He also reiterated warnings against the use of VIP escorts, sirens, and illegal movements on election day.
The IGP spoke during a crucial meeting with political leaders and other relevant stakeholders at the Rock View Hotel, Owerri, to discuss vital election security-related matters, said the meeting, which encompassed issues related to police deployment, ensuring secured elections, and maintaining security for all citizens, served as a veritable platform for the IGP to assure stakeholders of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to creating a secured environment for all voters and participants in the electoral process.
The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said: “The IGP emphasised that the officers deployed for electioneering processes have undergone rigorous training on election monitoring, guaranteeing robust security at polling units, and protecting the fundamental rights of all well-meaning members of the public as part of the NPF’s thrust in upholding democratic principles.
“The IGP urged all political parties to engage in constructive dialogue and embrace a peaceful atmosphere during the election period, in order to foster a harmonious and peaceful environment for a credible and successful electoral process.
“The Inspector General of Police underscored the importance of citizens having confidence in the NPF’s professionalism, impartiality and its commitment to non-interference in the electoral process as the primary objective of the police is to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for the elections. Stakeholders were assured that security for all citizens is a top priority and that police will work diligently to maintain peace and safeguard the electoral process from any disruptions.
“The meeting had in attendance the Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly; Chief Mike Okiro (IGP retd); chairman of eight political parties; traditional rulers led by His Royal Majesty, Eze Dr. EC Okeke, CFR, the Eze-Imo of Imo State; Imo State Resident Electoral Commission; religious leaders; heads of security agencies in Imo State; members of the civil society; youths and student groups”.