Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, prohibited the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, and the Vigilante Corps from participating in Ondo State’s upcoming governorship election on November 16.
This directive was issued in a statement on Sunday by the Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi.
According to the statement, the IGP has ordered the deployment of specialized police units, including the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and K-9 Unit, among others, to ensure security across the state.
Additionally, police helicopters will conduct aerial patrols, while gunboats will monitor waterways and riverine areas to provide comprehensive coverage.
With the Ondo State Gubernatorial Election approaching, the IGP reassured the public of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to a peaceful and orderly process across all 18 Local Government Areas, 203 Wards, and 3,933 Polling Units in the state.
“The IGP has confirmed that comprehensive plans are in place to ensure a smooth election process, including strategic deployment of personnel, resources, and state-of-the-art equipment,” the statement read.
“Specialized units from the Nigeria Police Force, working alongside other federal security agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, will strictly adhere to the Electoral Act, 2022, ensuring transparency and fairness,” the statement continued.
In addition to the ground and aerial security measures, the IGP warned that any political thugs or individuals attempting to disrupt the election would face strict legal action.
“The IGP has issued a stern warning to political thugs or anyone considering acts of violence or disruption: they will face the full force of the law.
Anyone jeopardizing the peace and security of the state will not go unpunished,” Adejobi stated.
Seventeen political parties are set to contest in the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State
