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FILE: A cross-section of some Nigerian policemen
With just a week to the Ondo State governorship election, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has assured residents of a violence-free poll, stating that the police force will be fully prepared to prevent any breach of peace.
Egbetokun announced that 22,239 officers would be deployed to maintain security across the state before, during, and after the November 16 election.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission in Akure on Thursday, Egbetokun, represented by Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 17, Abiodun Asabi, stressed that the police would collaborate with other security agencies to ensure a smooth electoral process.
“The success of a significant exercise like this election hinges on peace, order, and security. Any disruption can derail the integrity of the process. All stakeholders must approach this election with security-conscious methods, knowing that fair and orderly conduct will reduce security threats and enhance the election’s credibility,” he said.
The police, in conjunction with supporting security bodies, will work as a unified team to counter threats, providing watertight security at polling units and other public spaces within the state.
Egbetokun added, “Our responsibility is to protect voters, electoral officials, materials, and the general public. This will involve both covert and overt operations by the security agencies designated for election duties.”
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, also addressed the gathering, reaffirming INEC’s commitment to delivering a free, fair, and credible election. He urged political parties to ensure their supporters avoid disruptive conduct.
“I encourage political parties to issue only INEC-approved accreditation tags, now enhanced with QR codes for easier verification. The practice of allowing multiple agents for one party, which often leads to impersonation and conflict at polling sites, must stop,” Yakubu stated.
Representatives from political parties, including the APC, PDP, LP, ZLP, YPP, and others, were present at the meeting and appealed to INEC and security agencies to adhere strictly to the rules to ensure the poll’s integrity.
APC candidate and state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, underscored the importance of peace, urging candidates to prioritise unity over rivalry.
“Elections come and go, but Ondo State remains. It is our collective responsibility to maintain the peace we currently enjoy,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He further called on his fellow candidates to focus on the long-term prosperity of Ondo, saying, “Let us see beyond the immediate contest and safeguard the peace and stability of our state. I appreciate everyone committed to ensuring a peaceful environment for all.”
