Elections: I-G charges personnel to deal with electoral offenders

Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) in charge of operations at zonal and state commands have been charged to deal with politicians who violate the Electoral Act during upcoming elections.

Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Mohammed Adamu, gave the charge at a meeting with the DCPs on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said that the meeting was to discuss, evaluate and perfect election security plans of the force.

“We will also review the national security threat assessment report as received from different security sources and evolve pathways towards mitigating them ahead of the elections.

“This is our sacred mandate and this we shall perform within the dictates of the law and in the overriding national security interest,” Adamu said.

He charged the officers to perfect an advance plan for the mobilisation and deployment of personnel from other security agencies.

“Emplace adequate arrangement for the safety and security of all local and international observers as may be accredited by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),” he said.

Adamu directed the officers to undertake concerted raids of black spots to frustrate criminal elements that could constitute a threat to peaceful electoral process.

He assured that officers deployed for election duty would be closely monitored, adding that their names and telephone numbers would be attached to their areas of deployment.

He explained that the initiative would enable the force to hold the officers responsible for any misconduct capable of dragging the image of the force in the mud.

The police boss disclosed that since assuming office, he had engaged strategic stakeholders to ensure quality security service and credible elections.

“The police under my leadership recognises that the credibility of the electoral process is key to the strengthening of our democratic credentials, national security and global perception and respect,” he said.

Adamu assured Nigerians and the international community of the preparedness of the police for the elections.

He called on Nigerians to continue to support the force in its efforts to provide security for credible and peaceful elections.