The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, on Wednesday held a strategic meeting at the Force Headquarters in Abuja aimed at strengthening security arrangements for peaceful elections.
The meeting, which included members of the Force Management Team and senior INEC officials, brought together National Commissioners representing the North-Central, North-East, South-South, and South-West regions, alongside other senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
Those present included Professor Sanni Muhammed; Mrs Jamila Abubakar Malafa; Dr Baba Bila; Rear Admiral Rhoda Gumus; and Professor Kunle Ajayi.
Discussions focused on developing a robust security framework for upcoming electoral activities, particularly the Ekiti and Osun off-cycle governorship elections, forthcoming bye-elections, and preparations for the 2027 General Elections, in view of current national security concerns.
In his remarks, Professor Amupitan stressed the need for proactive security planning and specialised training for electoral personnel.
He also called for enhanced protection to ensure that Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) are able to participate freely in the electoral process without fear or intimidation.
Responding, IGP Disu described the engagement as timely and critical to democratic stability. He said the Nigeria Police Force has already commenced strategic preparations, including intelligence mapping to address electoral violence, cult-related activities, and voter intimidation.
He also highlighted ongoing coordination with sister security agencies to secure the movement of personnel and electoral materials, as well as efforts to combat misinformation during elections.
The IGP assured that all officers deployed for election duties will operate strictly in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act, while undergoing continuous training on rules of engagement and human rights protection.
He reiterated the Force’s commitment to professionalism and stated that any officer found guilty of misconduct or actions capable of undermining the electoral process would face disciplinary action.
Reaffirming the Police Force’s commitment to a safe electoral environment, Disu pledged special attention to the protection of IDPs and PWDs throughout the electoral cycle.
He further assured INEC of full collaboration, while urging cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure credible, peaceful, and successful elections.
