The Inspector-General of the Nigerian Police Force, Usman Alkali Baba, has given clear instructions to all Commissioners of Police and strategic commanders who will be in charge of the forthcoming governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections. He has directed them to use all available resources at their disposal to protect the electorate during the polls. Additionally, Baba has ordered the police personnel deployed for election duties to ensure the safety and security of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, sensitive materials, and the entire electoral process throughout the conduct of the election scheduled for March 11, 2023.
According to a statement released by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General made this decision after a meeting with strategic police managers to discuss and review current issues and strategies aimed at achieving a more secure and successful electoral process.
Adejobi said in the statement that, “Similarly, the IG has ordered strategic deployments in accordance with the developed standard operating procedure for polling units to ensure maximum protection against intimidation, harassment, and assault on law-abiding citizens during the electoral process.
“He equally charged all election commanders in various states to take up complaints of intimidation, harassment, and assault reported by individuals/groups for proper investigation.
“The IG, therefore, assures all Nigerians, particularly electorates and INEC officials that the NPF is in synergy with other security agencies to ensure adequate security and protection of fundamental rights nationwide.”
