The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has announced the deployment of 22,239 police personnel to ensure security during the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State.
According to Egbetokun, the officers will work alongside other security agencies to maintain peace and protect citizens across the state’s 18 local government areas.
Speaking through Assistant-Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 17, Abiodun Asabi, at a stakeholders meeting in Akure, Egbetokun emphasized the significance of the upcoming election.
He described it as a democratic opportunity for the people of Ondo to exercise their right to choose leaders by majority vote.
The IGP underscored the importance of a peaceful election, stating, “The success of the upcoming gubernatorial election in the state depends on peace, order, and existing security.”
He outlined that the security plan involves “concerted covert and overt operations by synergised security agencies,” ensuring comprehensive coverage at polling stations and public spaces.
Egbetokun urged election stakeholders to perform their duties with a security-conscious approach.
He highlighted that responsible behavior by all parties would minimize security risks and enhance the election’s credibility. “All stakeholders should eschew violence, avoid the do-or-die approach, should not employ thuggery, and play the game according to the rules with sportsmanship spirit that will enable the loser to lose gallantly and the winner to be magnanimous in victory,” he said.
Acknowledging the role of political parties, the IGP noted that certain parties have contributed to political tension in the lead-up to the election, posing potential security challenges.
He emphasized the need for the police and other security forces to work as a unified team to “identify and nip in the bud all security threats.”
The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Abayomi Oladipo, also expressed commitment to ensuring a peaceful election.
He warned against any actions that might incite violence, urging party supporters to conduct themselves responsibly.
“The security of the state is the responsibility of everyone. Violence should not have a place in the state. We want to ensure a peaceful and fair election for all,” Oladipo stated.
