Anambra Election: IGP Deploys Monitoring Team To Ensure Police Discipline And Neutrality
BY GLORY UGOBA
THE Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has urged police officers deployed for the Anambra State governorship election to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, neutrality, and integrity throughout the electoral process.
Speaking through the Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of Operations, Ben Okolo, the IGP announced that a special monitoring team has been activated to supervise and assess the conduct of officers during the election.
He gave the charge on Monday while addressing personnel at the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area.
Police Officers Warned Against Electoral Misconduct
Egbetokun commended police officers serving in Anambra for their dedication despite the state’s complex security environment. He reminded them of their constitutional duties under Section 4 of the Police Act 2020, which include crime prevention, protection of lives and property, and the maintenance of public order — all to be performed with full respect for human rights.
“This is an off-cycle governorship election, and as the lead agency for internal security, we must demonstrate professionalism and impartiality,” the IGP said.
“Our allegiance is to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the sovereign will of the people — not to any political party or candidate,” he emphasized.
Egbetokun restated the Force’s zero-tolerance policy for electoral misconduct, warning that any officer found engaging in unprofessional or partisan behavior will face strict disciplinary action.
He cautioned against electoral crimes such as ballot snatching, vote buying, thuggery, and voter intimidation, describing them as serious felonies under the Electoral Act 2022.
“Our professionalism must be firm and fair. Electoral offences will be treated as crimes against national security. Officers are directed to arrest offenders based on credible evidence and ensure proper prosecution through the Electoral Offences Desks established across the state,” he said.
Monitoring and Intelligence Teams Deployed
The IGP further disclosed that specialized monitoring and intelligence units have been deployed to track officers’ performance and behavior during the election.
“You are under close watch and will be held accountable for your actions. Conduct yourselves responsibly and uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force. Additional officers will join you from tomorrow,” he stated.
Command Assures Readiness
Earlier, the Commissioner of Police for Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, assured the visiting delegation that the command is fully prepared to deliver a peaceful, free, and credible election.
“We are committed to the IGP’s directive and confident that the election will be devoid of violence or intimidation,” Orutugu said.
Also speaking, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 13, Ukpo, Aboyemi Popoola, affirmed that all necessary security arrangements have been completed.
“Every measure has been put in place to ensure peace and order. At the end of the process, the Nigeria Police Force will have every reason to be proud,” he assured.
