Ondo Decides: Police Deploy Over 22,000 Officers For Election
Nigeria Police has own up to its duty as the Ondo election is a week remaining before the governorship election in Ondo State, Inspector General of Police Mr. Kayode Egbetokun has assured the public that the election will be conducted peacefully, with police presence aimed at preventing any breakdown of law and order.
The IGP revealed that a total of 22,239 officers will be deployed to guarantee the security of lives and property throughout the election process—before, during, and after the polls scheduled for November 16.
Egbetokun made this announcement at a stakeholders’ meeting regarding the 2024 Ondo State governorship election, held in the state capital, Akure, on Thursday. This meeting was organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Represented by Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 17, Mr. Abiodun Asabi, the IGP emphasized the importance of collaboration among various security agencies to maintain peace before, during, and after the election.
He stated, “It is widely recognized that the success of significant events like the upcoming governorship election hinges on a foundation of peace, order, and security. Any disruption to that peace could jeopardize the anticipated success of the election.”
“It is essential for all stakeholders to fulfill their roles with a focus on security. Conducting ourselves in a fair and orderly manner will significantly reduce security threats and positively influence the election’s credibility.”
Egbetokun noted that the Nigeria Police, along with other security agencies, will operate as a cohesive unit to identify and neutralize potential threats and ensure tight security at polling stations and all public areas within the state.
He stressed, “The protection of voters, electoral officials, electoral materials, and the general public must be effectively ensured at all stages of the election process.”
He concluded that the deployment will include both covert and overt operations executed by the collaborative security forces tasked with election duties. “To achieve comprehensive election security, the Nigeria Police, in addition to support from other agencies, will deploy a total of 22,239 officers for this purpose,” he affirmed.
