Ahead of the Ondo State gubernatorial election slated for Saturday, November 16, 2024, Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a strong caution against political interference from both state and non-state actors.
The IGP emphasized the importance of a peaceful election, warning that any attempts to disrupt the process would be met with severe consequences.
In a further directive, Egbetokun specifically warned political thugs and any individuals or groups contemplating violence or disturbances during the election period, stressing that the full force of the law will be applied.
He reiterated the commitment of the police to ensuring the election is conducted smoothly, without any hindrances.
Reassuring the public, the IGP confirmed that the police are fully prepared to secure the election across all 18 local government areas, 203 wards, and 3,933 polling units in Ondo State.
He assured that every measure is being put in place to guarantee safety and a peaceful voting process.
Comprehensive strategies are already underway to ensure a seamless election, including the meticulous deployment of necessary personnel, equipment, and other resources.
Egbetokun’s plan focuses on maintaining security and stability throughout the electoral process.
According to a statement released on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, specialized units such as the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force (PMF), Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU), and others will be deployed to work alongside other security agencies.
These forces will operate under the strict guidelines of the Electoral Act, 2022, to ensure fairness, transparency, and order.
In addition to ground personnel, air patrols will be conducted using police helicopters, while gunboats will monitor the state’s waterways and riverine areas to safeguard all electoral terrains.
These measures are designed to prevent any disruptions and enhance the overall security of the election process.
The IGP also reiterated that no non-police organizations, including state-backed groups like the Vigilante Corps or Amotekun, will be allowed to participate in election security.
The responsibility for election security rests solely with the Nigeria Police Force and other federal agencies, in collaboration with the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).
