Joy Anyim
The Police high command has warned politicians and their supporters in Edo and Ondo states to avoid actions or statements that may incite unrest ahead of the September 19 and October 10 gubernatorial elections in both states.
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Adamu, in a statement, on Sunday, urged concerned parties to conduct themselves properly, play by the rules and steer-clear of tendencies capable of undermining the electoral process in the two states.
According to the police boss, the warning followed a review of Election Security Threat Assessment Reports submitted by the Commissioners of Police from both States in a meeting held Tuesday, August 25, 2020.
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The statement, on Sunday, signed by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) Frank Mba stated, “ 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 delegitimising government institutions involved in the electoral processes.
“The Commissioners of Police in the two states – Edo and Ondo – are to rejig their preparations for the elections to accommodate and address the threats and emerging trends as contained in the security report.
“The Force leadership is evolving customised security architecture to protect the people and ensure hitch-free elections”.
IGP Adamu maintained 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.
Adamu, however, assured 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 reiterated 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.
