The Inspector-General of Police, IGP M.A. Adamu, NPM, mni has warned
politicians and their supporters in Edo and Ondo States, where
gubernatorial elections are scheduled to hold on 19th September 2020 and
10th October 2020 respectively, to conduct themselves properly, play by
the rules and steer-clear of tendencies capable of undermining the
electoral process in the two States.
A statement signed by Force Spokesman, DCP Frank Mba, said “The IGP gave
the warning having reviewed the Election Security Threat Assessment
Reports submitted by the Commissioners of Police from both States in a
meeting held Tuesday, 25th August 2020.
“The Election Security Threat Analysis reveals amongst other indicators:
arming and movement of political thugs, use of inciting statements
during political campaigns, high likelihood of violence and possible
cross attack by political opponents, misinformation/disinformation aimed
at heating-up of the polity and deliberate efforts at delegitimizing
government institutions involved in the electoral processes.
“The IGP has therefore ordered the Commissioners of Police in the two
States – Edo and Ondo – to rejig their preparations for the elections to
accommodate and address the threats and emerging trends as contained in
the security report. He noted that the Force leadership is evolving
customized security architecture to protect the people and ensure
hitch-free elections. The IGP however warns politicians and their
supporters in Edo and Ondo that the Force will not hesitate to bring the
full weight of the law on anyone or group, irrespective of status that
may want to sabotage the security arrangement being emplaced for the
elections.
“Meanwhile, the IGP assures Nigerians, particularly the people of Edo
and Ondo States that the Force remains committed to protecting the
sanctity of the ballot in the country. He reiterates that the Police
will be neutral, apolitical and will work assiduously with all
stakeholders in ensuring a level playing ground for all in the
elections.”