Ondo Poll: ‘Police Fully Committed To Impartiality’, Says IGP

The Nigerian Police Force has said it would ensure that the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State is void of impartiality.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun assured on Tuesday at the Goodluck Ebele International Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, in a meeting convened with AIGs and CPs from all formations, zonal and state commands.

The meeting was aimed at reflecting on accomplishments, delineating future strategies, and reinforcing the commitment of the Force to maintaining law and order across the nation.

A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi in Abuja, said during the meeting, significant emphasis was placed on the upcoming gubernatorial election in Ondo State, scheduled for November 16th 2024.

Egbetokun said the NPF is fully committed to “impartiality, professionalism, and the highest standards of conduct to safeguard democracy.”

He said rigorous training sessions will be conducted for police personnel to prepare them for their duties, with a focus on conflict resolution and maintaining public order during the elections.

The IGP further announced the senior police officers’ conference and retreat which would take place from November 25th to 28th, 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

He stressed the indispensable value of camaraderie, teamwork, and shared purpose within the Force, reiterating the importance of collaborative efforts with relevant governmental and non-governmental agencies, as well as community stakeholders, in achieving the nation’s common goals.

“A united front is imperative in tackling the multifaceted security challenges faced by our nation.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to transparency and effective communication with the public and will continue to work diligently to ensure the safety and security of all citizens and maintain law and order across the country,” he said.

Egbetokun’s commitment to the success of the Ondo poll comes after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), announced that collection of the Permanent voters’ cards by registered voters will commence on Thursday.

The INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, announced this in a statement on Monday.

According to the statement, a total of 89,777 new PVCs were printed and delivered to INEC’s state office in Akure.

This includes 58,708 new voters and 31,069 individuals who applied for transfers, updates, or replacements of lost and damaged PVCs.

PVC collection will be available at two levels across 221 centres in the state.