Paul Akomolehin, South West
DAILY COURIER - The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has announced a ban on security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs into polling booths and collation centres during the Ondo State governorship election.
The directive, aimed at ensuring a peaceful and transparent election, is part of a comprehensive security plan established by the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP confirmed that extensive measures had been taken to secure the election environment. These measures include deploying Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police Sylvester Abiodun Alabi as the coordinating officer, with oversight of all police security strategies for maintaining law and order throughout the election period.
To further reinforce security, Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) Bennett Igweh and Commissioner of Police (CP) Tunji Disu have been assigned to oversee and coordinate the elections at their respective levels. This strategic deployment highlights the police’s commitment to ensuring a safe, transparent, and credible voting process.
In addition to the ban on VIP escorts, the IGP has ordered a statewide restriction on vehicular movements from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day, November 16, 2024. This restriction covers all roads, waterways, and other means of transportation within Ondo State, with exceptions for essential service vehicles such as ambulances, media officials, and fire service personnel.
The IGP’s statement also emphasized that unauthorized security personnel, quasi-security agencies, and the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles will not be permitted during the election. This measure is intended to prevent any disruptions that may undermine the integrity of the voting process. In particular, the ban on VIP escorts aims to avoid any appearance of favoritism or intimidation at polling stations and collation centres, allowing for an orderly and fair process.
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, special provisions will be made for persons with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those with mobility challenges. The IGP underscored the importance of keeping polling stations accessible and inclusive for all voters, regardless of their physical condition.
To facilitate communication during the election, the police have established dedicated election lines for reporting incidents and inquiries. These numbers will be made public shortly, ensuring that citizens have a direct line to law enforcement in case of any security concerns or irregularities at polling locations.
The IGP urged all citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may threaten the integrity of the election. The Nigeria Police Force is working closely with the military and other federal security agencies to foster a safe and democratic environment for voters across Ondo State.
In his statement, the IGP reiterated the police force’s commitment to fair and peaceful elections, stressing that collaboration from all stakeholders will be vital to achieving this goal. The measures reflect a robust and cooperative approach, designed to protect citizens and uphold democratic values in the state’s electoral process.
