The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has deployed three Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) to the three states where the off-circle governorship elections are taking place on November 11, 2023.
The deployed DIGs are to oversee the security arrangements in the three states namely, Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa, and to ensure the elections run smoothly in the three states.
They are DIG Frank Mba who is in charge of Training and Development at the Force Headquarters. He is to oversee the election in Imo state.
DIG Habu Sani, in charge of the Department of Force Intelligence, has been deployed to Kogi State.
DIG Daniel Pedro in charge of Information and Communication Technology is to oversee the election in Bayelsa State.
This was disclosed in a press briefing by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Tuesday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
According to ACP Adejobi, the IGP has also ordered the distribution of additional 220 operational vehicles including water canons, armoured personnel carriers, and gunboats for riverine areas, helmets bulletproof vests, tear gas cannisters. This is to augment already deployed assets.
The IGP, the Force Spokesman disclosed, has also ordered the deployment of five helicopters to the three states.
While one each is to go to each of the three states, two will be used for aerial patrols during the elections.
In a bid to ensure a smooth electioneering process, the Force image maker disclosed that the IGP has also restricted vehicular movements on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation in the three states.
The restriction, he disclosed, will begin from 12:01 a.m. to 6 p.m. on election day on November 11.
The restriction exempts those on essential duties.
In another development, the force spokesman also reiterated the force’s warning against name-dropping, impersonation and other unlawful acting.
He said the Nigeria Police Force is deeply concerned about recent reports concerning the activities of certain individuals who are operating as middlemen, acting as negotiators on behalf of individuals involved in criminal activities currently in police custody.
“These individuals have been exploiting the names of high-ranking police officers, including that of the Inspector-General of Police, to intimidate and coerce others,” ACP Adejobi said.
“The NPF strongly encourages all Nigerians to be vigilant and exercise discernment when approached by anyone using the names of senior police officers, as this practice not only undermines trust in the Nigeria Police Force but also poses a significant threat to the integrity of our justice system.
“Furthermore, the Force wishes to emphasize its unwavering commitment to the high standards and principles upon which the Nigeria Police Force is built. We firmly caution members of our own ranks who may consider colluding with these middlemen to compromise the standards of the Force to refrain from such actions immediately. It is essential to highlight that any officer found engaging in such activities will face severe consequences.
“The Nigeria Police Force maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any actions that could tarnish our reputation or compromise the administration of justice.
“Finally, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force. We urge all Nigerians to have faith in our justice system and to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities, most especially using our already published contacts. Your cooperation and vigilance are essential in helping us maintain the integrity of our force and the justice system.”
