With just 12 days to the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has banned vigilante groups and state-owned security outfits from providing security during the election.
Consequently, the IGP has ordered the deployment of 45,000 police officers to the State.
Speaking at the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) meeting with the Independent NationalElectoralCommission (INEC), National chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, on Monday, Egbetokun emphasized that only federal security agencies represented in ICCES – including the military, DSS, NSCDC, and others – would play roles in the poll.
He said vigilante groups and state security outfits would be completely barred from participating.
“Only officers from federal agencies represented here will have any operational role. Vigilante groups and state security bodies will have no place in this election,” the IGP declared.
The IGP, represented by CP Abayomi Shogunle, vowed that the Nigerian Police Force will “provide airtight protection across every polling unit, entry, and exit point” in the state.
He said beginning from November 1, tactical police units will commence pre-election deployments and clearance operations, targeting individuals and groups suspected of plotting unrest.
The IGP warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the process would be swiftly arrested and prosecuted.
The police boss also announced a statewide restriction of movement on election day, with a detailed schedule to be released in an upcoming press statement.
“All entry and exit points into Anambra will be sealed off and closely monitored to prevent infiltration or violence.
“Every road, every route in and out of Anambra will be manned. We are not leaving anything to chance,” Egbetokun assured.
According to him, the security measures, coordinated under the watch of the National Security Adviser’s office, mark one of the largest pre-election deployments in Nigeria’s democratic history, underscoring resolve to secure the Anambra poll amid rising political tensions.