The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has prohibited the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, and the Vigilante Corps from participating in the upcoming November 16 governorship election in Ondo State.
This directive was issued in a statement on Sunday by Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi.
The IG has also ordered the deployment of officers from various specialised units, including the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and K-9 Unit, among others.
In addition, aerial patrols using police helicopters will be conducted, and gunboats will patrol the state’s waterways and riverine areas to ensure comprehensive security coverage.
As the Ondo State governorship election approaches, the Inspector General of Police has assured the public of the Nigeria Police Force’s full preparedness to maintain peace and order throughout all 18 Local Government Areas, 203 Wards, and 3,933 Polling Units in the state.
“The IGP has confirmed that comprehensive plans have been set in motion to guarantee a smooth election, including the strategic deployment of adequate personnel, resources, and state-of-the-art equipment.
“The deployment will see officers from various specialised units, including the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit, K-9 Unit, Federal Investigation and Intelligence Response Team, and Federal Intelligence and Security Task Force working in concert with other security agencies. These agencies will adhere strictly to the guidelines of the Electoral Act, 2022, ensuring that all measures taken align with the principles of fairness, transparency, and order.
“In addition to ground personnel, aerial patrols will be conducted with police helicopters, while gunboats will patrol the state’s waterways and riverine areas to ensure security across all terrains. These comprehensive measures will serve as a deterrent to any attempt to disrupt the electoral process and will enhance the overall stability of the elections.”
The IGP also warned that action would be taken against political thugs or anyone intending to disturb the elections.
The statement indicated that only federal security forces and other participants of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security would be permitted to take part in the election.
“The IGP has also issued a stern warning to political thugs and any individuals or groups who may contemplate acts of violence or disruption before, during, or after the election: they will face the full force of the law. The message is clear — those who attempt to jeopardise the peace and security of the state will not go unpunished,” Adejobi stated.
Seventeen political parties will participate in the Ondo governorship election on November 16.
