From Victor Osula, Abuja
IGP Egbetokun
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, and other local security outfits to refrain from providing security during the upcoming Ondo State governorship election on November 16.
In a statement on Sunday, Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi emphasised that election security will remain the exclusive duty of the Nigeria Police Force and other federal security agencies.
Egbetokun assured residents of Ondo State of a safe and orderly election across all 18 Local Government Areas, 203 Wards, and 3,933 Polling Units.
“As the Ondo State Gubernatorial Election, scheduled for November 16, 2024, draws near, the Inspector-General of Police has unequivocally assured the public of the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering readiness to ensure a peaceful and orderly election process across all 18 Local Government Areas, 203 Wards, and 3,933 Polling Units in the state,” the statement read.
The police will deploy ground personnel alongside aerial patrols using helicopters and will position gunboats along the state’s waterways to enhance security.
These measures, Adejobi noted, are aimed at deterring any potential disruptions and ensuring stability throughout the election process.
Egbetokun further warned against any attempts by political thugs or other individuals to incite violence, stating that such acts would be met with the full force of the law.
“Those who attempt to jeopardize the peace and security of the state will not go unpunished,” he stated.
The IGP reiterated that no quasi-security organisation, including Amotekun or other state-backed groups, will be allowed to participate in election security.
“The security of this election is a responsibility entrusted solely to the Nigeria Police Force and other federal security agencies, along with the broader membership of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security,” the statement added.
The Nigeria Police Force and federal security partners have expressed their commitment to maintaining electoral integrity and ensuring that the Ondo Gubernatorial Election proceeds smoothly and peacefully.
