IGP To Edo/Ondo Politicians: Conduct Yourselves And Play By The Rules

…Says Election Security Threat Analysis in Edo and Ondo disturbing

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Adamu on Sunday said that the Election Security Threat Analysis in Edo and Ondo States revealed amongst other indicators, the arming and movement of political thugs, use of inciting statements during political campaigns and high likelihood of violence.

The IGP also said that the indicators point to a possible cross attack by political opponents, misinformation and disinformation aimed at heating-up of the polity and deliberate efforts at delegitimizing government institutions involved in the electoral processes.
The Police boss therefore warned politicians and their supporters in the two states, where gubernatorial elections are scheduled to hold on September 19, and October 10, 2020 respectively, to conduct themselves properly.

The IGP also urged the political stakeholders to play by the rules and steer-clear of tendencies capable of undermining the electoral process in the two States.
Adamu gave the warning having reviewed the Election Security Threat Assessment Reports submitted by the Commissioners of Police from both States in a meeting held Tuesday, August 25, 2020.

The IGP has therefore ordered the Commissioners of Police in the two States – Edo and Ondo – to rejig their preparations for the elections to accommodate and address the threats and emerging trends as contained in the security report.

A statement by the Forece Public Relations Officer, DCP Frank Mba, quoted IGP Adamu as saying that the leadership of the police is evolving customized security architecture to protect the people and ensure hitch-free elections.

The IGP specifically warned politicians and their supporters in Edo and Ondo States 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 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 assured 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.