Kogi LG Poll: Police Tighten Security, Warns Against Electoral Violence

Ahead of today’s local government election in Kogi State, the Police Command said it has intensified security preparations, assuring residents of adequate protection before, during and after the exercise, warning against electoral violence and acts capable of disrupting peaceful conduct of the election.

As part of the preparations, the command has released a joint operation order for the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, while deployed personnel have been briefed on their operational guidelines, roles and responsibilities to ensure effective security management during the polls.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, disclosed this in a statement, saying the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, had convened a strategic meeting with all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs),

Heads of Departments (HODs) and Area Commanders to review security arrangements.

According to her, the meeting emphasised strict compliance with election security guidelines, professionalism, impartiality and respect for citizens’ rights throughout the electoral process.
She said officers had also been directed to remain vigilant, maintain effective supervision and respond promptly to security concerns within their respective areas of responsibility.

“To strengthen proactive security, intelligence assets have been deployed to identified flashpoints to support early threat detection and timely intervention,” the statement read.

The CP also directed officers to submit hourly situation reports and ensure the prompt reporting of incidents to facilitate effective monitoring, coordination and rapid response to emerging security threats.

The command noted that the exercise would further strengthen operational coordination and inter-agency collaboration ahead of future electoral engagements.

It called on residents to cooperate with security agencies, maintain peace, obey lawful directives and refrain from acts capable of disrupting the electoral process.

The police urged members of the public to report suspicious movements and emergencies through 07038329084 or 08152195982.

The command reassured voters that adequate measures had been put in place to safeguard lives and property, urging them to exercise their civic responsibilities without fear.