As the critical Ondo State gubernatorial election set for November 16, 2024, looms, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a sweeping ban on the involvement of local security outfits in election activities. This dramatic step reflects the high-stakes nature of the upcoming election, as the Ondo polls have stirred heightened tensions across the region. The IGP’s directive, which aims to maintain order and impartiality, underscores concerns about security lapses and allegations of local biases that could jeopardize election integrity.
The ban reflects growing fears of partisan interference by regional security groups. In a comprehensive meeting with senior police officers, Egbetokun reaffirmed his commitment to neutrality, declaring that only trained, professional security forces under the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) will be authorized to monitor the election. His assurance also addressed the increasing concerns about public order, with strict protocols established to deter violence or vote manipulation during the election. The NPF plans to deploy rigorous training sessions for officers to bolster preparedness for the crucial task of managing election tensions and preventing unrest.
With voter expectations high, the IGP’s ban also aligns with broader security measures from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has intensified its readiness for the election. INEC recently announced that the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) across various centers in the state would be completed before Election Day to ensure citizens’ active participation in the polls. This preparation, combined with the police’s reassurances, aims to set a stable scene for the highly anticipated Ondo election.
The upcoming election has also prompted the NPF to collaborate with various stakeholders, emphasizing that a “united front” among law enforcement, community leaders, and governmental bodies is critical to safeguarding democracy and promoting trust in Nigeria’s election processes. By removing local security outfits from the election process, authorities are doubling down on their stance against partiality, seeking to quell any lingering mistrust from the public and political actors alike.
Peoplesmind
