From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has deployed a Commissioner of Police, Erale Samuel Etaifo, to Osun State to oversee and coordinate security for the August 15 governorship election.
The deployment was announced in a statement on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi.
“The deployment underscores the resolve of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that the electoral process is conducted in a peaceful, transparent and secure atmosphere, while guaranteeing the safety of voters, electoral officials, election observers, media practitioners and all law-abiding residents of the state,” Ojelabi said.
He explained that Etaifo would work closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to enforce compliance with the Electoral Act, the Code of Conduct for Security Personnel on Electoral Duty and other laws governing the election.
The Osun State Police Command assured residents that comprehensive security measures had been put in place to safeguard lives, property and sensitive election materials before, during and after the poll.
Ojelabi said all deployed personnel had been directed to remain impartial, professional and respectful of citizens’ rights, irrespective of political affiliation.
The command warned political actors, supporters and other stakeholders against actions capable of disrupting public order.
While urging residents to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security operatives and report suspicious activities through official emergency channels, the command said: “Electoral violence, vote-buying, voter intimidation, the spread of misinformation and every other form of criminality will be met with the full weight of the law.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to providing a level playing field for all political parties and ensuring that the will of the people prevails through a peaceful, credible and transparent electoral process.”
(The Sun)