The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has prohibited the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, and the Vigilante Corps, among other local security outfits, from taking part in the upcoming Ondo State governorship election scheduled for November 16, 2024.
The directive affects all 18 Local Government Areas, 203 Wards, and 3,933 Polling Units in the state, where at least 17 political parties will compete.
In a statement on Sunday, Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi detailed the deployment of specialized police units to ensure a secure and orderly election.
Units mobilized for the election include the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and K-9 Unit, among others.
“Comprehensive plans have been set in motion to guarantee a smooth election, including the strategic deployment of adequate personnel, resources, and state-of-the-art equipment,” Adejobi stated.
He added that aerial patrols will be conducted with police helicopters, while gunboats will patrol waterways and riverine areas to ensure security in diverse terrains.
Adejobi further relayed the IGP’s assurance of “unwavering readiness” by the Nigeria Police Force to maintain peace and order throughout the election process.
He also issued a warning to any individuals or groups intending to disrupt the election, noting that “those who attempt to jeopardize the peace and security of the state will not go unpunished.”
According to Adejobi, the IGP emphasized that only federal security agencies and the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security would be permitted to participate in the election, effectively excluding state-backed groups such as Amotekun.
“The security of this election is a responsibility entrusted solely to the Nigeria Police Force and other federal security agencies,” he said, affirming adherence to the Electoral Act, 2022.
He concluded by reiterating the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to delivering a peaceful, transparent, and fair election.
