Ondo polls: IGP orders tight security, deploys top personnel
IGP, Kayode Egbetokun
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered extensive security measures aimed at ensuring a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process during the forthcoming Ondo off-season Gubernatorial elections.
The election is scheduled to be held on Saturday, November 16.
In preparation for the elections, the IGP has deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Sylvester Abiodun Alabi as the coordinating DIG for the Elections.
His task according to a remark by the Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Thursday, is to supervise the implementation of the Police security strategies to maintain law and order throughout the electoral period.
The IGP also deployed Assistant Inspector-General of Poice, Bennett Igweh and Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu as AIG and CP Elections respectively.
Adejobi wrote, “In preparation for the elections, the IGP has deployed DIG Sylvester Abiodun Alabi as the coordinating DIG for the Elections, tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Police security strategies to maintain law and order throughout the electoral period, while AIG Bennett Igweh, mni, and CP Tunji Disu are deployed as AIG and CP Elections respectively.
“As part of the security framework, there will be a restriction of all vehicular movements on roads, waterways, and other means of transportation from 6 am to 6 pm on Election Day, with the exception of those on essential services, such as ambulances, media officials, fire services, and other accredited media.
“Furthermore, security aides and escorts attached to VIPs are banned from accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centres to prevent disruptions. Unauthorized security personnel and quasi-security agencies will not be permitted to operate during the election, and a strict ban on the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles will be enforced. Special consideration will also be extended to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those facing mobility challenges to ensure that polling stations remain accessible.
“Designated election lines have been established for inquiries and reporting incidents. These lines will be publicized as soon as possible.”
The Nigeria Police Force enjoined residents to report all suspicious activities that may threaten the integrity of the electoral process and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a safe and democratic environment as the state gears up for the elections.
“The Police will also be working with the military and other Federal security agencies as collaborative efforts from all stakeholders are vital to ensuring that the elections are conducted fairly and peacefully,” the statement added.
