From Olu Samuel, Lokoja
The Kogi State Police Command has strengthened its operational arrangements ahead of the Local Government Elections scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday, October 17, 2026), assuring residents of its commitment to providing a secure environment for the peaceful conduct of the exercise.
A statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, stated that as part of the measures, the joint operation order for the Nigeria Police Force and other sister security agencies has been released, and deployed personnel have familiarised themselves with the operational guidelines, roles and responsibilities required for effective election security.
”The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, psc, mni, has also convened a strategic conference with all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Heads of Departments (HODs) and Area Commanders,” Afusat noted.
She said that the meeting reinforced strict compliance with election security guidelines, professionalism, impartiality and respect for the rights of citizens throughout the electoral process. Officers were reminded of the need to remain vigilant, maintain effective supervision and respond promptly to any security concerns within their areas of responsibility.
”To strengthen proactive security, intelligence assets have been deployed to identified flashpoints to support early threat detection and timely intervention. The CP has further directed officers to submit hourly situation reports and ensure the prompt reporting of incidents to facilitate effective monitoring, coordination and rapid response where necessary,” she said.
The Command notes that the exercise will also provide an opportunity to further strengthen operational coordination and inter-agency collaboration ahead of future electoral engagements.
She said that the Kogi State Police Command calls on residents to cooperate with security agencies, conduct themselves peacefully, obey lawful directives and refrain from any act capable of disrupting the electoral process.
”Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious movements or emergencies through *07038329084 or 08152195982.
”The Command reassures the electorate that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard lives and property before, during and after the elections, and urges voters to exercise their civic responsibilities without fear,” she added.