The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu has pledged professionalism and fairness in the conduct of security operations during upcoming elections in Nigeria.
Disu made the pledge while receiving the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, and his delegation at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, to strengthen collaboration for peaceful elections.
He described the visit as timely, noting that “it would further promote democratic stability and credible electoral processes in the country.”
The Police boss disclosed that the Force has already activated strategic measures, including precision intelligence mapping to neutralise political violence, cult-related activities, and intimidation.
The IGP further assured the delegation that all officers deployed for election duty will be strictly guided by the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act.
“I give you the commitment of members of the Nigerian Police Force to be free, fair, and ensure a credible election. I assure you that under the present leadership of the force, we will remain professional, impartial, firm, and guided strictly by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the electoral acts, and all extant laws. I want you to know that no political party candidates or interest group will receive preferential treatment from the police.”
Early Planning
He urged the INEC team to ensure the electoral timetable is made available early enough for proper planning by all stakeholders involved.
Disu said; “We want to implore you, as a matter of urgency, to promptly release and widely disseminate the electoral timetable, schedules and other INEC activities the public should be aware of.
“The public is eagerly awaiting the information, and timely publication will enable all stakeholders to plan adequately for the elections.
“At the same time, I want to advocate stronger inter-agency collaboration. Although the Nigeria Police Force is the lead agency in election security management, we recognise that we cannot do it alone.”
Personnel Training
He emphasised that personnel are currently undergoing rigorous training on the rules of engagement and the protection of human rights.
As the lead agency in election management, Disu stated that the Force is committed to maintaining public order with a policy of zero tolerance for professional misconduct.
He further promised that any officer found wanting in their duties or engaging in acts that undermine the credibility of the polls will be disciplined in accordance with the law.
Secured Environment
In his remarks, Professor Amupitan underscored the urgent need for proactive security measures and specialised training for personnel.
He particularly advocated for a secure environment that ensures Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) can exercise their constitutional franchise without fear or hindrance.
The meeting had in attendance the Force Management Team, other notable delegates from the commission, including the National commissioner, North-Central Region, Professor Sanni Muhammed; the National Commissioners, North-East Region, Mrs. Jamila Abubakar Malafa and Dr. Baba Bila, the National Commissioner, South-South Region, Rear Admiral Rhoda Gumus, National Commissioner, South-West Region, Professor Kunle Ajayi, and very senior Officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
