The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has reinforced security measures in Ondo State ahead of the upcoming governorship election scheduled for Saturday. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, announced on Thursday that officers have been strategically deployed across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs), 203 wards, and 3,933 polling units to prevent any disruptions during the election.
According to the statement, a minimum of four police officers, in collaboration with other security personnel, will be stationed at each polling unit to ensure a smooth and orderly voting process.
Police Command Ensures Comprehensive Security Deployment
Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Ondo State election, DIG Sylvester Alabi, held a press briefing at the Ondo State Police Command Headquarters in Akure. Addressing officers assigned to election duty, he emphasized the readiness of the NPF and other security agencies to safeguard the electoral process.
Alabi reiterated that the Force had already commenced the deployment of security personnel across all 18 LGAs, confirming that each polling unit would be secured by a mix of police officers and personnel from other security agencies. He highlighted the importance of intelligence gathering and vigilance to prevent any security threats and ensure the integrity of the election.
The NPF also stressed the need for proactive measures to combat electoral fraud, including vote-buying and manipulation. Through comprehensive threat assessments, the police have allocated adequate resources to areas identified as high-risk, aiming to maintain a secure environment for voters.
Collaboration with Other Security Agencies
The DIG called for a collaborative effort between the NPF, other security agencies, and citizens, urging all stakeholders to adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act 2023 (as amended) and INEC guidelines. He warned that any individual attempting to disrupt the electoral process would face arrest and prosecution. The police have also set up contingency plans to address any incidents that may arise before, during, and after the polls.
INEC Distributes Sensitive Electoral Materials
In preparation for the election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has distributed sensitive materials, such as ballot papers, to all 18 LGAs in Ondo State. These materials were dispatched on Thursday from the Central Bank of Nigeria in Akure, overseen by the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oluwatoyin Babalola. Representatives of political parties, security agencies, and other stakeholders were present to ensure transparency in the distribution process.
Babalola assured the public of INEC’s commitment to a transparent and efficient voting process, particularly emphasizing logistical arrangements for riverine and remote areas within the state.
FRSC Deploys 1,500 Personnel to Support Election Security
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has also intensified efforts to facilitate a smooth electoral process by deploying 1,500 personnel. The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, approved the deployment, instructing officers to work alongside other security agencies to enforce restrictions on vehicular movement and ensure the smooth flow of traffic on election day.
In a directive issued by the Assistant Corps Marshal and Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, the FRSC personnel were tasked with clearing road obstructions, conducting rescue operations in case of emergencies, and maintaining order at polling stations. Additionally, the FRSC has mobilized 25 patrol vehicles, seven tow trucks, and six ambulances to enhance their operational capacity.
Mohammed urged all deployed personnel to conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism, avoiding any actions that could infringe on the rights of voters, while ensuring compliance with electoral laws and guidelines.
Seventeen Political Parties to Participate in the Election
A total of 17 political parties are fielding candidates in the Ondo State governorship election. Security agencies have pledged to create a conducive atmosphere for a free, fair, and credible electoral process.
