Off-cycle elections: Police distributes 220 operational vehicles to Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has disclosed that it is distributing 220 operational vehicles to its operational commands in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo State.
This is coming on the heel of the forthcoming off cycle Gubernatorial elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States scheduled for 11th November, 2023.
In a press statement issued on behalf of the NPF by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun ordered the distribution of additional 220 operational vehicles, including water canons, Armored Personnel Carriers, helmets, bullet proof vests, tear gas canisters etc, to the 3 affected states to intensify security arrangements for the elections.
Earlier, the IGP had organised trainings for the police officers who are involved in the election security management for the forthcoming elections and sought the approval of the Federal Government for the payment of their allowances and other necessary support to boost the morale of the officers during the operations.
The IGP therefore urges all stakeholders in the three states to embrace peace, uphold the sanctity of the rule of law and be law-abiding in their endeavours before, during and after the elections as the Police and other security agencies have been placed on alert to avert any unruly acts capable of disrupting the elections in any of the states.
Previously, the Chairman Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu had stated that Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states are the most difficult places to conduct elections.
Yakubu said the difficult terrain and insecurity caused by political actors in the states make it difficult to conduct elections in the areas.
He spoke at a meeting of the Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security in Abuja.
He said, “The three states of Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi are not the easiest states in Nigeria to conduct elections. The difficult geographical terrain and prevailing insecurity are compounded by negative mobilisation by political actors, especially since the commencement of campaign in public on 14th July 2023.
“Our message to politicians is that they should call their candidates and supporters to order. Violence and other undemocratic activities such as vote buying, attacks on election officials and disruption of the electoral process must stop.
“However, ultimate responsibility for election security lies with the security agencies. Our message to the security agencies is to take decisive action against perpetrators of electoral violence.
“This is the surest way to guarantee a safe environment for the peaceful conduct of elections and electoral activities. In doing so, security personnel on electoral duty should remain neutral and committed to the established professional code of conduct and rules of engagement.”
