The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Thursday announced that 22,239 officers would be on hand to provide security during the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State.
Egbetokun, represented by AIG Abiodun Asabi, stated this in Akure at the Independent National Electoral Commission’s stakeholders meeting ahead of the election.
He emphasized the crucial role of security in the election, stressing that the success of the election depends on peace, order and security, and that any breach of peace or security can compromise the exercise.
“To ensure adequate security, the Nigeria Police will deploy 22,239 officers, in addition to personnel from sister agencies.
“The police will work closely with other security agencies to identify and address potential security threats, provide security at polling stations, and protect voters, electoral officials, and materials,” the IGP said.
He urged all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates and agents, to conduct themselves lawfully and adhere to global best practices of democracy.
Egbetokun cautioned against violence, thuggery and electoral law violations, warning that violators will face diligent prosecution.
Earlier, the Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, reiterated the readiness of the commission for the election, and highlighted INEC’s efforts to ensure transparency and credibility.
Yakubu said that the commission had uploaded detailed information on collected and uncollected PVCs for each of the 3,933 polling units in Ondo State.
According to him, a total of 2,053,061 registered voters are expected to participate in the election.
On security measures, the INEC boss stressed the importance of security during the election, ensuring personal safety and protection of observers, the media and citizens.
He said the commission has worked closely with security agencies to develop a comprehensive election security plan.
Speaking, INEC National Commissioner, Professor Kunle Ajayi, urged political parties to conduct themselves with decorum and responsibility.
He emphasized that elections are not a zero-sum game and that democracy flourishes in an atmosphere where candidates compete based on ideas, vision and respect for the electorate.
Thefrontrank reports that INEC said it will deploy the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS and the INEC Result Viewing Portal(IReV) to enhance credibility and transparency.
The commission has accredited 111 domestic and international organizations, deploying 3,554 observers and over 100 media organizations for the election.
