By Hosea Parah, Abuja
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, recently organized a significant meeting with political leaders and other key stakeholders at the Rockview Hotel in Owerri. The purpose of the meeting, held on Thursday, November 2, 2023, was to discuss crucial matters related to election security. The discussions focused on police deployment, ensuring secure elections, and maintaining the safety of all citizens involved in the electoral process.
During the meeting, the IGP emphasized that the officers deployed for election duties have undergone extensive training in election monitoring. He assured stakeholders that robust security measures would be put in place at polling units to protect the fundamental rights of all law-abiding members of the public. The IGP also urged political parties to engage in constructive dialogue and promote a peaceful atmosphere during the election period, ultimately fostering a harmonious environment for a credible and successful electoral process.
The Inspector General of Police stressed the importance of citizens having confidence in the professionalism and impartiality of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). He assured stakeholders that the police’s primary objective is to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for the elections. The IGP promised that security for all citizens would be a top priority, and the police would work diligently to maintain peace and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process from any disruptions.
Notable attendees at the meeting included the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Chief Mike Okiro (IGP Rtd.), chairmen of eight political parties, traditional rulers led by His Royal Majesty Eze Dr. EC Okeke, CFR, the Eze-Imo of Imo State, the Imo State Resident Electoral Commission, religious leaders, heads of security agencies in Imo State, members of the civil society, as well as youth and student groups.
Furthermore, the IGP issued a stern warning to individuals and groups who may contemplate disrupting the elections. He made it clear that the deployed officers have been instructed to take decisive action against anyone found engaging in unlawful activities that undermine the integrity of the electoral process. The IGP also reiterated warnings against the use of VIP escorts, sirens, and illegal movements on election day.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from the IGP and the Nigeria Police Force to ensure a secure and peaceful electoral process. The stakeholders expressed their confidence in the NPF’s professionalism and commitment to non-interference in the electoral process. With these efforts in place, it is expected that the upcoming elections will be conducted in a peaceful and credible manner, instilling trust in the democratic system of Nigeria.