The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensuring secure and credible elections, following a strategic meeting with the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, in Abuja.
The meeting, held at the Force Headquarters on Wednesday, brought together members of the Force Management Team, senior police officers, and top INEC officials to develop a coordinated framework for election security.
According to the statement which was issued by the Force Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Okon Placid Which stated the Key discussions centred on strengthening security arrangements for the upcoming Ekiti and Osun off-cycle governorship elections, pending bye-elections, and the 2027 general elections, particularly against the backdrop of prevailing security challenges across the country.
INEC National Commissioners from various geopolitical zones, including the North-Central, North-East, South-South, and South-West, were also in attendance.
In his remarks, Professor Amupitan highlighted the need for proactive security measures and specialised training for election personnel.
He stressed the importance of creating a safe voting environment for vulnerable groups, especially Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs).
Responding, IGP Disu described the engagement as timely and crucial for democratic stability.
He disclosed that the police have already activated key strategies, including intelligence-led operations to curb political violence and voter intimidation, enhanced logistics for the secure movement of electoral materials and personnel, and strengthened collaboration with other security agencies.
He also noted ongoing efforts to counter misinformation and ensure that officers deployed for election duties strictly adhere to the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
The police chief further revealed that personnel are undergoing intensive training on rules of engagement and human rights protection, reiterating a zero-tolerance stance on professional misconduct.
He warned that any officer found undermining the credibility of the electoral process would face appropriate disciplinary measures.
IGP Disu assured Nigerians of a safe and secure electoral process and called for sustained cooperation between INEC, security agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure successful and credible elections.