I-G warns police officers against partisan conduct ahead of elections

The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olatunji Disu, has cautioned police officers against using their authority to advance the interests of any political party, candidate or sponsor.

Disu gave the warning on Wednesday in Abuja at a conference with Strategic Police Managers, comprising officers from the rank of Commissioner of Police (CP) and above.

He said, “As we approach another important electoral period, I wish to emphasise that the Nigeria Police Force will strictly remain a non-partisan institution, with allegiance to the Constitution and the Nigerian people.”

He said the responsibility of the force was to guarantee a safe and secure environment for all electoral participants, irrespective of their political affiliations.

Disu said every candidate, political party, supporter and eligible voter was entitled to equal protection under the law.

“I will not tolerate any officer using the authority of the Police to advance the interest of any political party, candidate or sponsor.

“Any officer found to be colluding with political actors, facilitating thuggery, compromising the integrity of the electoral process or interfering with the rights of voters will be disciplined according to the law,” he said.

Disu directed all CPs to commence and sustain comprehensive preparations within their respective commands.

The I-G ordered the immediate cancellation of leave for officers and men deployed for election security duties.

He urged CPs and other senior officers to remain in their respective commands until the conclusion of the electoral process, adding that any travel outside their commands must be approved by the Force Headquarters.

“All election security equipment, communications, mobility and protective gear must be verified and reported ready by the end of this week.

“Commands must establish direct coordination with INEC officials, the military, DSS and NSCDC in their respective states.

“We are the lead agency for election security, and we must lead by example, not by rivalry or friction,” he said.

Disu ordered commands nationwide to submit daily situation reports to the Force Headquarters throughout the electoral period.

The I-G said the Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of Operations would coordinate the reports and brief him directly every morning.

He said police personnel must be adequately trained, properly supervised and professionally equipped to discharge their responsibilities during the electoral period.

“I acknowledge the ongoing election security training initiatives across the Force, including the recent nationwide training facilitated by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund,” he said.

He said the efforts must translate into operational readiness, discipline and effective service delivery, adding that the force must remain impartial, firm and professional at all times.

“Let me be direct with every officer here and every officer listening across the country, the Nigeria Police Force is not a tool for any politician, any party or any interest.

“If you allow yourself to be used, you will face the consequences alone. The Force has clear disciplinary procedures, and they will be applied fully to anyone found wanting.

“Protect the process, protect the people, and protect your own career and reputation. Do not be used,” he said.